How Do You Fix a Collapsed Lung(Pneumothorax) at Home?

A collapsed lung, or pneumothorax, is a potentially serious medical condition that demands prompt evaluation and appropriate treatment. It occurs when air escapes from the lung and accumulates in the space between the lung and the chest wall, leading to sudden chest pain and difficulty breathing. Common causes include chest injuries, underlying lung conditions, or complications from medical procedures—though in some cases, no clear cause is identified. While small pneumothoraces may improve with rest and supplemental oxygen, self-care at home is not advised without medical supervision. If you suspect a collapsed lung, it’s critical to seek immediate medical attention to avoid complications and ensure proper recovery.

Seeking Medical Care for a Collapsed Lung: What You Need to Know

Step 1: Get to the emergency room.
If you experience sudden chest pain or other symptoms of a collapsed lung, such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness, nasal flaring, or fatigue, seek immediate medical attention. In cases of blunt chest trauma, shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood, visit a doctor right away. A collapsed lung can result from trauma, air pressure changes, or underlying conditions like asthma, cystic fibrosis, and tuberculosis. For significant chest pain or shortness of breath, call 911 for urgent care. Early treatment is critical, as a collapsed lung can deteriorate quickly.

Upon arrival at the emergency room, a doctor will perform tests to diagnose the condition. This may include a physical examination, listening to your chest with a stethoscope, checking your blood pressure (which may be low), and looking for signs such as skin blueness. An x-ray is typically used to confirm the diagnosis.

Step 2: Undergo treatment.
Your treatment will depend on the severity of the collapsed lung. For mild cases, doctors may recommend observation and bed rest for one to two weeks. Severe cases may require the removal of air with a needle and chest tube. The needle is inserted into the chest cavity, and excess air is withdrawn, similar to drawing blood. A chest tube is then placed to keep the lung re-inflated.

If these treatments are not effective, surgery may be necessary. Surgery is usually minimally invasive, using small incisions and a fiber-optic camera to guide surgical tools. The surgeon will locate and seal the air leak, and in some cases, remove damaged lung tissue. Recovery after surgery typically requires a hospital stay of five to seven days.

Step 3: Begin healing in the hospital.
While in the hospital, you will start the healing process under the care of nurses and doctors. You’ll be encouraged to perform breathing exercises, sit up, and walk to strengthen your lungs. If you underwent surgery, you may receive blood clot prevention shots and wear special stockings.

Your doctor will provide instructions on at-home care, medications, and when it’s safe to return to work. Follow these guidelines closely, and don’t hesitate to ask questions to ensure a full recovery.

Managing a Collapsed Lung at Home: Key Steps for Recovery

Step 1: Take prescribed medications.
Follow your doctor’s advice and take any prescribed pain medications, especially in the first few weeks after treatment. Taking pain medication early can prevent severe discomfort. Expect the worst pain in the first 48 to 72 hours, with improvement over time. Full recovery can take several weeks, even after the worst symptoms subside.

Step 2: Rest, but stay active.
While it’s important to rest, avoid complete bed rest. Engage in light, low-impact activities like walking. Don’t rush back to normal activities too soon, as it could trigger another collapse. Wait until your breathing is normal and pain has subsided before resuming high-impact activities.

Step 3: Sleep in a recliner for the first few days.
Breathing may be difficult after a collapsed lung, so sleeping in a recliner can help. A slightly upright position reduces downward pressure on the chest, making breathing easier. A pillow on the affected side can also add comfort.

Step 4: Be mindful of clothing and padding.
Avoid putting too much pressure on your ribcage. A pillow against the chest wall can ease pain with each breath, but never tape your ribs or chest, as it can impair breathing. Wear loose-fitting clothing for comfort, and opt for a sports bra or a larger bra size if necessary.

Step 5: Avoid smoking.
If you’re a smoker, refrain from smoking during recovery, as it can stress your lungs and slow healing. Consider quitting smoking altogether, as it increases the risk of another lung collapse. Speak to your doctor about options like nicotine patches or pills to assist with quitting.

Step 6: Avoid sudden changes in air pressure.
Air pressure changes can stress the lungs and increase the likelihood of re-collapse. Avoid flying, high-altitude locations, and swimming underwater. If travel is necessary, consider modes of transportation like car, bus, or train instead of flying.

Step 7: Do not drive until fully healed.
Pain, medication side effects, and recovery from surgery can slow reaction times, making driving unsafe. Only drive once you’re pain-free and feel fully alert. Consult your doctor for advice on when it’s safe to return to driving.

Step 8: Watch for recurrences.
A collapsed lung increases the risk of future collapses, with up to 50% of people experiencing another collapse, usually within a few months. Be aware of any recurring symptoms and seek medical help immediately if they occur. Mild discomfort or a pulling sensation in the chest during recovery is normal, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.

Tips for Managing a Collapsed Lung at Home

1. Be Cautious During Air Pressure Changes
   Collapsed lungs are more likely to occur during activities that involve sudden changes in air pressure, such as flying, scuba diving, and mountain climbing. These activities can place extra stress on your lungs, making them more susceptible to injury or collapse.
   
2. Monitor for Symptoms
   If you engage in activities like these, remain vigilant for symptoms of a collapsed lung. These may include sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a feeling of tightness in the chest. Early recognition of symptoms can help in seeking timely medical care.
   
3. Consult Your Doctor Before High-Risk Activities
   If you have a history of lung issues or conditions that may predispose you to a collapsed lung, consult your healthcare provider before participating in activities involving rapid changes in air pressure. They can offer guidance on precautions or suggest alternative activities to minimize risks.

 Warnings for Managing a Collapsed Lung at Home

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
   If you experience any symptoms of a collapsed lung—such as sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, or rapid breathing—seek medical attention immediately. Even if symptoms seem mild, they can worsen quickly and require urgent care.
   
2. Collapsed Lungs Can Worsen Rapidly
   A collapsed lung can deteriorate swiftly, and the condition can become life-threatening if left untreated. Even seemingly minor symptoms can indicate a serious underlying issue, so don’t wait to see if the symptoms improve on their own.
   
3. Delayed Treatment Increases Risk
   Delaying medical intervention can lead to complications, including further lung damage, respiratory failure, and in some cases, death. Prompt treatment can prevent these outcomes and improve recovery chances.
   

Understand the Importance of Prompt Diagnosis
Even mild symptoms should never be ignored. Collapsed lungs require medical evaluation, typically involving imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans, to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.