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A collapsed lung, pneumothorax, is a condition in which air gets between the double layer of membrane which lines the lungs. If air is drawn between the two layers, one of which covers the lung whereas the other layer covers the inside of the chest wall, it is very difficult for the air to escape again.
When a person sustains a collapsed lung, they will suffer difficulties in breathing as the air caught between the double layer of membrane compresses the lung. Symptoms of the condition include a dry cough, shortness of breath and chest pain and tightness.
The condition is six times more common in men than it is in women, and tall, thin and fit men in their 20s and 30s are usually the group most affected. Smokers are also at a greater risk of developing the condition, however, vigorous exercise, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are all known to be factors in pneumothorax.
Usually, only one lung is affected at a time, however, in some very rare cases, people have been known to suffer both lungs collapsing at the same time.
Pneumothorax can be diagnosed by an examination of the chest with a stethoscope or with an x-ray. Although minor cases will resolve themselves without any further treatment, more serious cases of pneumothorax need to be treated in a hospital by having the air drawn out with either a syringe and needle or a drainage tube.
If a drainage tube is used, it is inserted into the space which contains the air, consequently allowing the air to be expelled. The tube usually has to be left in place until the lung heals, which can take between two days and a few weeks.
If it is found that air is still making its way in between the two layers of membrane, a process called pleurodesis, which uses a chemical irritant, may be used to stick the two layers together and prevent a further collapse. Those who have suffered pneumothorax have a one-in-five chance of it happening to them again within the following year.
Sadly, a number of people suffer from some form of medical negligence every year, and the consequences can lead people to have treatment they do not need, or stop people from having treatment which, in some cases, could potentially save their life.
Here at YouClaim, we work with some of the very best solicitors in the UK, and we may be able to help you to receive a substantial sum for you pain, suffering and any loss of earnings.
To find out more about making a compensation claim, call us on our mobile friendly number now, 0333 240 0871, or request a call back.
