Tension pneumothorax
Alternative Names
Pneumothorax - tension
Symptoms
- Sudden chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Easy fatigue
- Bluish color of the skin due to lack of oxygen
- Rapid heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Decreased mental alertness
- Decreased consciousness
- Rapid breathing
- Bulging (distended) veins in the neck
Exams and Tests
When heard through a stethoscope, the breath sounds are decreased. Structures in the center of the chest (mediastinum) may appear to have moved. There may be air trapped in the tissue of the chest wall (subcutaneous emphysema), causing a spongy feeling when the chest is felt with the hands (palpation).
In general, if a health care provider suspects tension pneumothorax, treatment should start before tests are done. Some tests can help confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the problem.
Tests used to diagnose tension pneumothorax include:
References
Murray J, Nadel J. Textbook of Respiratory Medicine. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2000.
Marx J. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2002.
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