Pneumothorax is also known as a collapsed or punctured lung. It occurs when air leaks into the space between your chest wall and lung. This buildup of air can press against the lung, causing it to partially or fully collapse. Pneumothorax can be serious and sometimes even a medical emergency. Recognising and understanding pneumothorax is important for getting the right care quickly, which can make all the difference in recovery and lung health.
The exact cause of Pneumothorax is not definite. There are multiple causes of Pneumothorax, some of them are discussed below:
Chest Injury: Serious chest injury can cause a lung to collapse. This can happen from a physical blow or accident, like a car crash. Even accidentally during medical procedures involving needles in the chest might cause the injury.
Lung Diseases: Multiple medical conditions that damage lung tissue, like COPD, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer, or pneumonia, make the lungs more prone to collapsing. Certain lung diseases, such as lymphangioleiomyomatosis and Birt-Hogg-Dube syndrome, create small air sacs in the lungs that can burst and lead to pneumothorax.
Ruptured Air Blisters: In some cases, small air blisters, or blebs, form on top of the lungs. If they burst, air can leak into the area around the lungs, potentially causing them to collapse.
Mechanical Ventilation: Some people also use mechanical ventilators to help them breathe. The ventilator might create too much air pressure inside the chest, causing the lung to fully collapse.
The symptoms of a pneumothorax, or collapsed lung, can vary depending on how much air has leaked. Here are some of the common symptoms of Pneumothorax discussed below:
A sharp or stabbing pain on the side of the chest might be observed during a collapsed lung. This pain can get worse when breathing deeply or coughing.
It becomes hard to breathe or you might feel like you’re not getting enough air. This is observed because the collapsed lung limits normal breathing
The heart may beat faster than usual (tachycardia) as the body tries to make up for lower oxygen levels.
Breathing may become quicker and shallower since the lung can’t expand and function properly.
In severe cases, a bluish tint may appear on the lips and skin. This shows low oxygen in the blood.
During a physical examination, breath sounds on the affected side of the lung might be reduced or even absent.
Pneumothorax, or a collapsed lung, is majorly categorised into two main types: spontaneous pneumothorax and traumatic Pneumothorax.
Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax: It usually occurs due to small air sacs, called blebs, on the lung surface that can suddenly burst. This could result in letting air escape into the space around the lung and causing it to collapse.
Secondary Spontaneous Pneumothorax: This is observed in people with lung conditions like COPD, cystic fibrosis, or tuberculosis. These diseases weaken the lung tissue, making it more likely for air to leak and cause the lung to collapse.
Blunt or Penetrating Trauma: Chest injuries caused due to car accidents, falls, or even direct blows can cause a lung to collapse. Puncture injuries, such as those from gunshots or stabbings, can also allow air into the chest space.
Latrogenic Pneumothorax: Some medical procedures, like lung biopsies or mechanical ventilation, can accidentally lead to a pneumothorax by letting air leak into the pleural space.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ayurvedic treatment of Pneumothorax using evidence-based Ayurveda. The treatment plans are customised to target the very root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance and stability in totality.
HACCP certified Ayurvedic medicines: Scientifically-formulated mixtures that help restore balance in the body and maintain emotional stability.
Yoga, Meditation and Mindfulness-Practices: Gentle techniques for mental wellness and overall quality of life.
Ayurvedic Healing Treatments: Therapies like Panchakarma and soothing massages that cleanse the body and bring emotional balance.
Diet & Lifestyle Guidance: Expert recommendations on how to change your diet and everyday habits to get you in peak health.
Ayurvedic medicines are formulated carefully to treat Pneumothorax which strengthens the immune system and alleviates Pneumothorax symptoms. These herbal formulations have been documented for their effectiveness in treating Pneumothorax.
Following are some commonly used naturally-sourced Ayurvedic herbs used to formulate efficient Ayurvedic medicines for Pneumothorax:
Vasa (Malabar Nut): It is very well known for its respiratory benefits. Vasa may help reduce inflammation and ease breathing.
Yashtimadhu (Licorice Root): It is often used for respiratory issues, licorice root may soothe lung tissues and support natural healing.
Kantakari (Yellow-berried Nightshade): This herb is used in Ayurveda to clear lung congestion and support breathing.
Tulsi (Holy Basil): It is known for its lung-cleansing properties. Tulsi may help in reducing chest congestion and improving oxygen flow.
Pippali (Long Pepper): It is believed to support respiratory health. Pippali may help reduce mucus and improve lung function.
Pushkarmool (Indian Elecampane): It is traditionally used for respiratory issues. This herb may help improve lung strength and relieve discomfort.
Sitopaladi Churna: This classical Ayurvedic formula combines herbs to support the respiratory system, ease breathing, and enhance lung capacity.
Shwas Kuthar Rasa: It may help reduce inflammation and clear the respiratory passages.
Tension Pneumothorax is a severe type of collapsed lung where trapped air builds up in the chest. This creates high pressure that compresses the lung and shifts the heart and other organs.
Home remedies cannot replace medical treatment for Pneumothorax which is a serious condition that needs professional care. Steam inhalation with herbs like eucalyptus may also clear airways and ease breathing. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, turmeric, and leafy greens can support healing, and staying hydrated helps keep airways clear.
Hydrothorax is the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, often due to conditions like heart failure or liver disease. Pneumothorax is the presence of air in the pleural space, usually caused by injury or lung disease, leading to a collapsed lung.
In Ayurveda, treatment for Pneumothorax focuses on strengthening lung health, reducing inflammation, and supporting respiratory function. Herbs like Vasa (Malabar Nut), Yashtimadhu (Licorice Root), Tulsi (Holy Basil), and Pippali (Long Pepper) are used to soothe lung tissues and enhance breathing.
Ayurvedic treatment for Pneumothorax can help support lung healing, reduce inflammation, improve respiratory function, and strengthen the immune system.
Yes, Ayurvedic medicines can be used alongside prescribed treatments for Pneumothorax, but only under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Ayurvedic remedies may support lung health and recovery, but they should never replace conventional medical treatments.
Ayurvedic medicine for Pneumothorax during pregnancy should only be used under the supervision of a qualified doctor. Some herbs may not be safe during pregnancy, and their effects on both the mother and baby need to be carefully considered.
Yes, Ayurvedic medicines for Pneumothorax may have side effects, especially if not used correctly or in combination with other treatments. Some herbs may interact with prescribed medications or cause allergic reactions.
