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Signs & Symptoms of Gas Pressure in the Chest

Gas pressure in the chest is a condition known as pneumothorax. The condition is also referred to as a collapsed lung and occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing pressure on the affected lung. In some cases, the lung may only collapse partially. A small pneumothorax may heal on its own, advises the Mayo Clinic. There are several causes for pneumothorax, including chest injury and disease, but it can also occur for no reason at all.

  1. Symptom: Sudden Sharp Chest Pain

    • With pneumothorax, a person will experience a sudden pain on the same side as the affected lung. If both lungs are affected, the person may feel pain throughout the chest cavity.

    Symptom: Shortness of Breath and Tightness in the Chest

    • As the air pressure builds around the affected lung, the person will have increasing difficulty breathing. The person may also experience tightness in the chest as the increased pressure constricts the lung. If only a small amount of air gets between the lung and chest wall, the person may experience very few symptoms. Alternately, the symptoms may improve throughout the day, even if the lung is still partially collapsed.

    Sign: Rapid Heart Rate

    • The collapsed lung takes in less oxygen due to pneumothorax. As a result, the heart has to work harder to deliver what oxygen it can to the rest of the body. The person may also become agitated from being unable to breathe, which will also increase the heart rate.

    Other Signs

    • The person may have a visible injury to the affected side of the chest. Injuries may include broken ribs and puncture or stab wounds. Vehicle airbags, CPR and other blunt trauma in the chest area can also cause pneumothorax. The person may not have puncture wounds but may exhibit lacerations and bruising in the affected area. Illnesses like tuberculosis, pneumonia and cystic fibrosis may cause pneumothorax. If a patient has a respiratory disease, and is exhibiting other signs and symptoms, he may have pneumothorax.

      There are several conditions that have symptoms similar to pneumothorax. Any person who experiences sudden chest pain or trouble breathing should consult his physician immediately. If the pain increases or breathing becomes more impaired, seek immediate emergency care.

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