Region: Chest
A condition where air enters the space around the lung, causing it to partially or fully collapse. This is a medical emergency in many cases.
What is a Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)?
A condition where air enters the space around the lung, causing it to partially or fully collapse. This is a medical emergency in many cases.
Symptoms
- Sudden chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid breathing
- Chest tightness
- Fatigue
What does a Pneumothorax feel like?
- Sudden sharp chest pain
- Feeling like you can’t catch your breath
- Tight or heavy chest
What are common causes of a Pneumothorax?
- Blunt trauma to chest
- High-impact collision
- Rib fracture puncturing lung
- Sudden pressure changes
Self check
- Did you feel sudden chest pain after impact?
- Are you short of breath at rest?
- Does breathing feel difficult or restricted?
Educational only — not a medical diagnosis.
What to do now
- Stop activity immediately
- Seek emergency medical care
- Stay calm and limit movement
- Do not return to play
Red flags
- Severe shortness of breath
- Chest pain worsening quickly
- Blue lips or skin
- Rapid heart rate
- Loss of consciousness
Recovery tips
- Follow medical clearance strictly
- Avoid activity until fully healed
- Gradual return under supervision
- Monitor breathing closely
Educational only. Not a medical diagnosis.