Can pneumothorax cause coughing?
Feb 17, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Qirui
Introduction
No, mild pneumothorax may not even cause dyspnea. Pneumothorax refers to the accumulation of air in the pleural cavity. It commonly results from pulmonary disease or external trauma causing rupture of lung tissue or the visceral pleura, or rupture of small subpleural emphysematous blebs near the lung surface, allowing air from the lung and bronchi to leak into the pleural cavity.
Pneumothorax refers to the abnormal accumulation of air or gas in the pleural cavity—the space between the lung and the chest wall—resulting in partial or complete lung collapse. It commonly occurs due to underlying pulmonary disease or external trauma causing rupture of lung tissue or the visceral pleura, or rupture of small subpleural emphysematous blebs near the lung surface, allowing air from the lung parenchyma or bronchi to leak into the pleural cavity. So, does pneumothorax cause coughing? The following section addresses this question.
Does pneumothorax cause coughing?
Generally, no. Mild pneumothorax may even be asymptomatic, with no dyspnea or other noticeable symptoms. Pneumothorax is defined as the entry of air into the pleural cavity, leading to air accumulation. It most commonly results from pulmonary disease or external trauma causing rupture of lung tissue or the visceral pleura—or rupture of small subpleural emphysematous blebs—allowing air from the lungs or bronchi to enter the pleural space.
When caused by chest wall or pulmonary trauma, it is termed traumatic pneumothorax; when resulting from spontaneous rupture of lung tissue due to underlying disease, it is called spontaneous pneumothorax; and when air is intentionally introduced into the pleural cavity for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, it is referred to as artificial pneumothorax.
Pneumothorax can be further classified into three types: closed (simple), open (communicating), and tension pneumothorax. Spontaneous pneumothorax predominantly affects young to middle-aged men and individuals with chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or pulmonary tuberculosis. As a pulmonary disorder, severe cases may be life-threatening; however, timely intervention typically leads to full recovery.
Common precipitating factors include strenuous physical activity, coughing, heavy lifting, raising the arms overhead, blunt chest trauma, and tuberculosis. Typical symptoms include chest tightness, shortness of breath, cyanosis, and—less commonly—cough.
The above provides an overview of whether pneumothorax causes coughing. We hope this information is helpful to you.
