It is possible to have a partial or complete lung collapse. Sometimes a partial collapse is limited to a small section of the lung, and you may have only one or two symptoms, or may even feel nothing. A very small lung collapse may heal on its own, but it is very important to see a doctor if you think you are having a lung collapse.
Therefore, it is very important to be able to detect if you are experiencing a spontaneous pneumothorax. Listed below are the usual symptoms:
- You may feel chest pains and be short of breath.
- Your chest may feel constricted, and you could feel the urge to cough.
- Your cough would be dry, not full of phlegm.
- Your heart may feel like it is beating quickly.
- The symptoms of pneumothorax may feel similar to a heart attack or other conditions. Only a doctor can determine whether or not you are having a pneumothorax. That is why it is important to get expert medical help.
- If you experience these symptoms, you should go to the Emergency Room in a hospital. A doctor will usually order a chest X-ray to see if you are having a pneumothorax.
We recommend talking to your doctor in advance about what you should do if you think you are having a lung collapse, so you are prepared to act appropriately. Be sure to explain that you have BHD syndrome.
