General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
A pneumothorax means air between the layers of the pleura around the lung. Treatment depends on its extent, how well it is tolerated and its cause; pain alone does not determine the choice.
A small pneumothorax with few symptoms may be managed with prescribed rest and observation. A follow-up chest X-ray checks that it has resolved; if symptoms return or worsen, consult the doctor again.
To remove the air, the team may use catheter aspiration or a chest drain. Ultrasound can help locate air or fluid in the pleural space and guide a puncture or drainage; ask which procedure has been offered to you.
Pleurodesis aims to join the pleural layers to prevent recurrence. It is not automatic: the team discusses it particularly after some recurrences, a severe episode or persistence despite drainage.
After treatment, clarify when to resume activities. Scuba diving with compressed-air tanks remains excluded under the recommendations presented by the French health insurance service; flying must await recovery and a delay to confirm with your doctor. Also discuss support for stopping smoking.
Severe pain on one side of the chest requires immediate medical advice. For very rapid breathing even at rest, blue lips or faintness, call 15 or 112 immediately in France; do not let the next scheduled check delay this call.
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