What is Lung over-expansion injury?

Lung over-expansion injury, or barotrauma, occurs when the lungs are exposed to excessive pressure. This can happen during mechanical ventilation, when the pressure inside the lungs is too high, or during scuba diving, when the pressure of the water outside the body is too high.

Lung over-expansion injury can damage the alveoli, the small air sacs in the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged. This damage can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain. In severe cases, lung over-expansion injury can lead to respiratory failure.

The risk of lung over-expansion injury is increased in people who have certain medical conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and emphysema. These conditions make the lungs more susceptible to damage from excessive pressure.

Lung over-expansion injury is a serious condition that can have long-term consequences. If you experience any of the symptoms of lung over-expansion injury, it is important to see a doctor right away.

Treatment

The treatment for lung over-expansion injury depends on the severity of the injury. In mild cases, treatment may involve simply reducing the pressure inside the lungs. In severe cases, treatment may require hospitalization and mechanical ventilation.

Prevention

The best way to prevent lung over-expansion injury is to avoid situations in which the lungs may be exposed to excessive pressure. This means being careful when using mechanical ventilation and scuba diving. If you have a medical condition that increases your risk of lung over-expansion injury, it is important to talk to your doctor about ways to minimize your risk.