Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
When to seek urgent help
Sudden chest pain or new breathlessness needs urgent medical assessment. Call 999 for severe breathing difficulty, collapse or rapidly worsening symptoms. If symptoms return after a previous pneumothorax, seek urgent reassessment rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
What is a pneumothorax?
A pneumothorax happens when air enters the space between the lung and chest wall, allowing the lung to partially or completely collapse. It can occur without a known lung condition, alongside an existing lung disease, after an injury or following a medical procedure. Symptoms commonly include sharp pain on one side of the chest and breathlessness.
How is it diagnosed?
Assessment includes examination, oxygen levels and usually a chest X-ray. CT may be needed when the diagnosis or underlying cause is unclear. Treatment depends on symptoms, stability and underlying lung health, rather than the X-ray size alone. A tension pneumothorax is an emergency requiring immediate treatment.
Treatment options
Selected people with a primary spontaneous pneumothorax and few symptoms can be monitored with planned follow-up. Others need air removed using a needle or a chest drain. An ambulatory device may allow treatment outside hospital where a suitable pathway and support are available.
Persistent air leakage or repeated episodes may lead to discussion of surgery or pleurodesis, a treatment intended to make the lung lining adhere to the chest wall and reduce recurrence. Your team will explain the benefits, risks and alternatives for your circumstances.
Recovery, flying and prevention
Attend the arranged follow-up and imaging even if you feel better. Stop smoking to reduce the risk of another episode. Ask for advice about returning to work, exercise and lifting.
Do not fly with an unresolved pneumothorax. Air travel is generally delayed until at least seven days after full resolution has been confirmed on a chest X-ray; your specialist may recommend longer. Scuba diving carries particular risk after pneumothorax and should not be resumed without specialist advice.
Routine follow-up appointment contacts
Sources and further information
BTS: pleural disease guideline
Oxford University Hospitals: pneumothorax and recovery
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals: collapsed lung
General information for adults; follow your treating team’s discharge advice.