A member asked:

How does a collapsed windpipe or lung lead to death?

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Rapidly: A collapsed windpipe / trachea is a rare injury that kills by preventing the movement of air. A fit person can survive one collapsed lung provided there isn't a valve that causes pressure to build up from inhalation-exhalation (wahlberg in three kings); a respiratory cripple won't be able to get enough air. These are painful but not agonizing. If you're lost someone you have my sympathy.

Answered 9/6/2019

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Dr. Loki Skylizard answered

Specializes in Thoracic Surgery

Tension: If the collapsed lung (pneumothorax) creates enough pressure, it can compress the right side of heart. This decreases the blood return to the heart. Without adequate blood return, your heart does not have enough blood to pump out to your body. This is called tension pneumothorax. This is rapidly fatal.

Answered 12/10/2013

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Related Questions

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What would cause pain around the windpipe, throat and upper chest?

A doctor has provided 1 answer