A member asked:

Can it be possible for you to die of a collapsed lung?

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Sue Ferranti answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

Yes....: A collapsed lung, or pneumothorax, occurs when air leaks into the space surrounding the lung, between the lung and chest wall. If enough air acummulates in this space, there can be enough pressure to push vital structures, including the heart, to the opposite side of the chest. This tension pneumothorax can lead to cardiac arrest which can result in death if not immediately treated/resuscitated.

Answered 7/1/2020

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Depends: A large tension pneumothorax can cause cardiac issues if left untreated. The air compresses the outflow of the heart and causes low blood pressure.

Answered 3/27/2014

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