You have been diagnosed with a pneumothorax. You have had a thorough examination and are now considered fit to be discharged. The following instructions will aid your recovery.
Patient advice for discharge with Spontaneous Pneumothorax
What is a spontaneous pneumothorax?
A pneumothorax is when air is trapped between the lung and the chest wall. It can happen spontaneously, that is ‘out of the blue’ or as a result of an injury or secondary to lung disease. Treatment in hospital depends on how big the pneumothorax is. As you are being discharged you will be seen by a respiratory consultant within the next few weeks.
Normal Lungs
Small pneumothorax
Air collects between the lung and the chest wall
Large pneumothorax
A lot of air collects and pushes on the lung and heart
Treatment of a large pneumothorax
Trapped air is removed by using a syringe and needle connected to a 3-way tap
A referral has been made to the respiratory physician at UHL (Llandough hospital). The secretary will contact you with an appointment. If you do not receive an appointment within 3 weeks please contact: (029) 2071 5417 (Dr Helen Davies’ secretary)
Advice following a spontaneous pneumothorax
- If experiencing any increase in breathlessness or chest pain, return to hospital.
- Air travel should be avoided until you have been seen in clinic.
- Smoking should be avoided. Contact GP for smoking cessation advice.
- Diving should be permanently avoided.
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