What are the signs of a collapsed lung. How is pneumothorax diagnosed. What causes the lungs to collapse. Can a collapsed lung be prevented. What treatment options are available for pneumothorax.

Understanding Pneumothorax: The Basics of a Collapsed Lung

Pneumothorax, commonly known as a collapsed lung, is a rare but potentially serious medical condition that affects thousands of people each year. This condition occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse partially or fully.

The lungs are vital organs that enable us to breathe in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide. Normally, they expand like balloons when we inhale. However, in the case of pneumothorax, this natural inflation process is disrupted.

The Mechanics of a Collapsed Lung

To understand pneumothorax better, it’s essential to know the basic anatomy involved:

• The lungs are situated within the rib cage (chest cavity).
• Each lung is surrounded by a thin membrane called the pleura.
• The pleura helps maintain the negative pressure necessary for proper lung function.

When a hole or leak occurs in the lung or its surrounding membrane, air escapes into the chest cavity. As this air accumulates, it exerts pressure on the lung, causing it to collapse.

Common Causes of Pneumothorax: Why Do Lungs Collapse?

Pneumothorax can occur due to various reasons, ranging from traumatic injuries to underlying health conditions. Understanding these causes can help in prevention and early detection.

Trauma-Induced Pneumothorax

One of the most common causes of a collapsed lung is physical trauma to the chest. This can happen in several ways:

• Car accidents
• Falls
• Sports injuries
• Physical assaults

In these cases, a broken rib might puncture the lung, leading to air leakage and subsequent collapse.

Medical Procedures and Iatrogenic Causes

Sometimes, medical procedures involving the chest area can inadvertently cause pneumothorax. These include:

• Lung biopsies
• Central line placements
• Thoracentesis (draining fluid from the chest cavity)

While these procedures are generally safe, there’s always a small risk of lung puncture.

Underlying Lung Conditions

Certain lung diseases can increase the risk of pneumothorax. These include:

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Asthma
• Lung cancer
• Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)

These conditions can weaken the lung tissue, making it more susceptible to rupture.

Spontaneous Pneumothorax

In some cases, pneumothorax occurs without any apparent cause. This is known as spontaneous pneumothorax and is more common in:

• Tall, thin individuals
• Smokers (both cigarettes and marijuana)
• People with a family history of the condition

Spontaneous pneumothorax often results from small air blisters (blebs) that develop on the lung’s surface and burst.

Recognizing the Symptoms: How to Identify a Collapsed Lung

Identifying the symptoms of pneumothorax is crucial for seeking timely medical attention. While the severity of symptoms can vary, there are several key indicators to watch for:

Primary Symptoms of Pneumothorax

• Sudden, sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing
• Shortness of breath or difficulty taking a full breath
• Rapid breathing (tachypnea)
• Dry, hacking cough

These symptoms often occur suddenly and can be quite alarming.

Secondary Symptoms and Complications

As the condition progresses, additional symptoms may appear:

• Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
• Bluish skin color (cyanosis) due to lack of oxygen
• Fatigue and weakness
• Tight feeling in the chest
• Pain that extends to the shoulder or back

Is pneumothorax always painful? While most cases involve some degree of chest pain, the intensity can vary. Some individuals might experience only mild discomfort, while others report severe, sharp pain.

Diagnosing Pneumothorax: Medical Evaluation and Imaging

When a collapsed lung is suspected, prompt medical evaluation is essential. The diagnostic process typically involves several steps:

Physical Examination

A healthcare provider will start with a thorough physical examination, which may include:

• Listening to breath sounds with a stethoscope
• Checking oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter
• Assessing chest movement during breathing

Imaging Studies

To confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the lung collapse, imaging studies are crucial:

• Chest X-ray: This is the primary diagnostic tool for pneumothorax. It can show the presence of air in the pleural space and the degree of lung collapse.
• CT scan: For more detailed images, especially in complex cases or when planning treatment.
• Ultrasound: Sometimes used in emergency settings for rapid diagnosis.

How accurate are chest X-rays in diagnosing pneumothorax? While chest X-rays are highly effective in most cases, small pneumothoraces might be missed. In such instances, a CT scan may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Pneumothorax: From Conservative Management to Surgery

The treatment approach for pneumothorax depends on several factors, including the size of the air leak, the severity of symptoms, and whether it’s a first-time occurrence or a recurrence.

Conservative Management

For small, uncomplicated pneumothoraces:

• Observation: The patient is monitored closely, often with supplemental oxygen.
• Rest: Limiting physical activity allows the lung to heal naturally.
• Pain management: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers may be recommended.

How long does it take for a small pneumothorax to heal on its own? In many cases, a small pneumothorax can resolve within 1-2 weeks with conservative management.

Needle Aspiration

For larger air pockets:

• A needle is inserted into the chest cavity to remove the excess air.
• This procedure is often done under local anesthesia.
• It can provide immediate relief and may be sufficient for some patients.

Chest Tube Insertion

For significant air leaks or recurrent pneumothorax:

• A small tube is inserted into the chest cavity to continuously remove air.
• The tube is typically left in place for several days.
• This allows the lung to re-expand and the air leak to seal.

Surgical Interventions

In cases of recurrent pneumothorax or high-risk occupations:

• Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS): A minimally invasive procedure to repair the air leak and prevent recurrence.
• Pleurodesis: A procedure to create scar tissue between the lung and chest wall, preventing future collapse.
• Bullectomy: Removal of blebs or bullae (air-filled sacs) on the lung surface.

What factors determine the need for surgery in pneumothorax cases? Recurrent episodes, large air leaks that don’t resolve with conservative measures, and certain occupational requirements (e.g., pilots, scuba divers) are common indications for surgical intervention.

Recovery and Rehabilitation: Post-Treatment Care for Pneumothorax

Recovery from pneumothorax varies depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment received. However, there are some general guidelines and considerations for the recovery period:

Immediate Post-Treatment Care

• Rest: Limiting physical activity is crucial in the early stages of recovery.
• Pain management: Following your doctor’s recommendations for pain relief.
• Follow-up appointments: Regular check-ups to monitor lung re-expansion and healing.

Breathing Exercises

Respiratory therapy often plays a significant role in recovery:

• Incentive spirometry: A device that helps you take slow, deep breaths to expand your lungs.
• Diaphragmatic breathing exercises: Techniques to strengthen respiratory muscles.
• Gradual increase in physical activity under medical guidance.

How long should breathing exercises be continued after pneumothorax treatment? While the duration varies, many healthcare providers recommend continuing these exercises for several weeks to months post-treatment to ensure optimal lung function and prevent complications like pneumonia.

Lifestyle Modifications

To reduce the risk of recurrence and promote overall lung health:

• Smoking cessation: If you smoke, quitting is crucial for lung health and reducing recurrence risk.
• Avoiding high-risk activities: Temporarily or permanently, depending on your situation.
• Maintaining a healthy weight and diet: To support overall respiratory health.

Long-Term Considerations

For some individuals, particularly those who’ve had surgical interventions:

• Regular lung function tests to monitor progress.
• Possible restrictions on air travel or scuba diving.
• Ongoing management of underlying lung conditions, if present.

Can individuals who’ve had pneumothorax return to normal activities? In many cases, yes. However, the timeline and extent of return to activities depend on the individual case and should be guided by medical advice.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing the Risk of Pneumothorax

While it’s not always possible to prevent pneumothorax, especially in cases of spontaneous occurrence, there are several strategies that can help reduce the risk:

Lifestyle Modifications

• Quit smoking: Both cigarette and marijuana smoking increase the risk of pneumothorax.
• Avoid sudden changes in air pressure: This is particularly important for those with a history of pneumothorax.
• Protect yourself during physical activities: Wear appropriate protective gear in contact sports or activities with a risk of chest trauma.

Managing Underlying Conditions

For those with lung diseases that increase pneumothorax risk:

• Adhere to prescribed treatment plans for conditions like COPD, asthma, or cystic fibrosis.
• Regular check-ups with a pulmonologist to monitor lung health.
• Stay up-to-date with vaccinations, especially for respiratory illnesses.

Occupational Considerations

For individuals in high-risk professions:

• Follow safety protocols meticulously, especially in jobs involving pressure changes (e.g., diving, aviation).
• Consider regular lung health assessments as part of occupational health checks.
• Be aware of the symptoms and seek prompt medical attention if concerns arise.

Is it possible to completely prevent pneumothorax in high-risk individuals? While complete prevention isn’t always possible, these strategies can significantly reduce the risk. Regular medical consultations and adherence to safety guidelines are key for those at higher risk.

Living with Pneumothorax: Long-Term Outlook and Quality of Life

For many individuals who experience pneumothorax, the long-term outlook is generally positive. However, it’s important to understand the potential impacts and considerations for life after a collapsed lung:

Recurrence Risk

One of the primary concerns after experiencing pneumothorax is the risk of recurrence:

• First-time occurrences have a recurrence rate of about 30% within the first year.
• The risk decreases over time but remains higher than in the general population.
• Surgical interventions can significantly reduce recurrence risk in many cases.

What factors influence the likelihood of pneumothorax recurrence? Smoking, underlying lung diseases, and the size of the initial pneumothorax are among the key factors affecting recurrence risk.

Physical Activity and Sports

Many individuals can return to normal physical activities after recovery:

• Gradual return to exercise under medical guidance is often recommended.
• Some high-impact or extreme sports may need to be avoided or approached with caution.
• Swimming and other low-impact exercises are generally safe and beneficial for lung health.

Travel Considerations

Air travel and activities involving pressure changes require special attention:

• Individuals with a history of pneumothorax may need to avoid flying for a period after the event.
• Some may require medical clearance before air travel.
• Scuba diving may be contraindicated for those with a history of spontaneous pneumothorax.

Psychological Impact

The experience of pneumothorax can have psychological effects:

• Anxiety about recurrence is common.
• Some individuals may benefit from counseling or support groups.
• Education about the condition can help alleviate fears and promote a sense of control.

How can individuals cope with anxiety related to pneumothorax recurrence? Strategies include staying informed about the condition, maintaining regular follow-ups with healthcare providers, and practicing stress-reduction techniques.

Ongoing Medical Care

Regular medical follow-up is crucial for long-term management:

• Periodic chest X-rays or CT scans may be recommended.
• Pulmonary function tests to monitor lung health over time.
• Continued management of any underlying lung conditions.

Living with a history of pneumothorax often involves a balance between caution and maintaining a normal lifestyle. With proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments, most individuals can enjoy a high quality of life and manage their condition effectively.

Pneumothorax: How to Treat a Collapsed Lung

Lungs are amazing organs. They allow us to breathe in the oxygen we need to live and breathe out a waste product called carbon dioxide. Each lung expands like a balloon when we inhale air, but what happens if the balloon won’t inflate? This is known as pneumothorax, more commonly called a collapsed lung. 

If you haven’t heard of it, you’re not alone. Pneumothorax is a rare medical condition, but it does occur for thousands of people each year.

Learn the causes of collapsed lungs, the symptoms and your options for treatment.

What is a collapsed lung?

Your lungs sit inside your rib cage (chest cavity). Each lung has a thin wrapping around the outside that keeps the air and gas inside the lung. If there is a leak or hole in the lung and the lining around it, this air will leak outside the lung and build up in the chest cavity.

“The chest cavity is a fixed space, like a box, and the air outside the lung will squish the lung and blood vessels as the air and gas fill the space between the chest wall and the lungs,” said Stephanie Worrell, MD, a thoracic surgeon at Banner Health in Tucson, AZ. “As the pressure and amount of air in this cavity increase, it puts pressure on your lung making it unable to expand when you breathe but also stopping the flow of blood to the heart—which can be life-threatening.”

What causes the lungs to collapse?

A collapsed lung can occur for many reasons, but most often it is the result of a fall or injury that causes a rib to break and tear the lung. 

“Any blunt injury to your chest can cause a lung collapse,” Dr. Worrell said. “This can be due to car crashes or falls or from medical procedures that involve the inserting of needles into the chest.”

Other known causes of pneumothorax include:

• Having underlying lung disease: cystic fibrosis, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), lung cancer, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), whooping cough and asthma 
• Smoking cigarettes and marijuana
• Spontaneously, most often in those who are tall and thin
• Small air blisters (blebs) that develop on the top of the lungs and sometimes burst, allowing air to leak into the cavity

How do I know if my lung is collapsed?

A collapsed lung is treatable, but it can be life-threatening. Dr. Worrell said you should seek medical attention immediately—call 911 or have someone take you to the closest emergency room—if you have any of these symptoms:

• Sudden shortness of breath or difficulty taking a full breath
• Sudden, sharp chest pain or chest tightness
• Shoulder pain that gets worse when you breathe in (inhale)

More severe symptoms may also include a racing heart, skin discoloration (bluish color) due to lack of oxygen and weakness.

“It’s always essential to get prompt medical treatment for a suspected collapsed lung,” Dr. Worrell said. 

How is pneumothorax diagnosed?

Generally, a chest X-ray or CT scan (for more detailed images) is performed to confirm that a lung is collapsed.

What is the treatment for a collapsed lung?

“The goal of treatment is to relieve the pressure in your lung, allowing it to re-expand,” Dr. Worrell said. “Depending on the cause of the collapsed lung, another goal is to prevent it from occurring again. ”

For small tears, your provider might treat you by giving oxygen and monitoring you. Sometimes a collapsed lung can get better on its own within a few weeks with rest.

For larger tears, the excess air will need to be removed. 

“Often, a small chest tube is placed to remove the air and allow the lungs to re-expand,” Dr. Worrell said. “If it is the first time this has ever happened, that is likely all that is needed. If it happens more than once or you plan to have a high-risk career (as an airline pilot, scuba diver or professional weightlifter), then surgery is recommended.”

The small operation will permanently stick the lining of the chest to the chest wall (pleurodesis) so there is no longer a space for air to collect. 

Your provider may also give you instructions on breathing exercises, called incentive spirometry, to help expand your lungs and air sacs to prevent pneumonia.

Can I prevent a collapsed lung?

Unfortunately, there is no way to completely prevent pneumothorax since it can occur spontaneously or due to trauma. However, if you smoke or vape, you should stop. Smoking can increase your risk of getting a collapsed lung.

If you’ve had a collapsed lung before, you should also talk to your provider if you fly on an airplane often. Flying at an elevation of 8,000 feet or higher can be dangerous, as the pressure changes can cause your lungs to re-collapse.

Takeaway

A pneumothorax is a collapsed lung. It occurs when air leaks into the space between your lung and chest wall (rib cage). This air puts pressure on the outside of your lung and makes it collapse.

While it is a rare condition, it can be life-threatening. If you are experiencing symptoms or are concerned you may be at risk for developing a collapsed lung, talk to your health care provider. 

Are you experiencing symptoms and have concerns about a collapsed lung?

Schedule an appointment with a primary care provider.
Schedule an appointment with a pulmonologist.

If you have sudden chest pain or shortness of breath, call 911 or visit the Banner Health emergency department closest to you.

Related blogs:

• How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Treatments Could Help You Heal
• The Best Ways to Protect Yourself Against Aspiration Pneumonia
• Breathe Easier: Treatment Options for Asthmatics

Pulmonology and Asthma

Collapsed Lung: Care Instructions | Kaiser Permanente

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Overview

A collapsed lung (pneumothorax) is a buildup of air in the space between the lung and the chest wall. The pressure of the air against the lung makes the lung collapse. Your lung cannot fully expand when you inhale. This causes shortness of breath and chest pain.

A collapsed lung is usually caused by an injury to the chest. It may also occur suddenly because of a lung illness, such as emphysema or lung fibrosis. A lung may collapse after lung surgery or another medical procedure. Sometimes it happens for no known reason.

Treatment can depend on the cause and severity of the collapsed lung. Treatment can also depend on whether the problem has returned. Some people stay in the hospital for treatment. In some cases, oxygen may be given (through a mask). It may heal with rest, but your doctor will need to check you. It can take several days for the lung to expand again. Your doctor may have drained the excess air from your chest with a needle or tube. Sometimes surgery is done to help keep the lung inflated.

The doctor will want to keep track of your progress. So you will need a follow-up exam to check your lungs. You may need further treatment if you are not getting better.

A collapsed lung may happen again. Watch for symptoms. If you have shortness of breath or chest pain, get medical treatment right away.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It’s also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Get plenty of rest and sleep. You may feel weak and tired for a while, but your energy level will improve with time.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• If you have a bandage over your chest tube, or the place where the chest tube was inserted, keep it clean and dry. Follow your doctor’s instructions on bandage care.
• If you go home with a tube in place, follow the doctor’s directions. Do not adjust the tube in any way. This could break the seal or cause other problems. Keep the tube dry.
• Avoid exercise until your doctor says it’s okay.
• Do not fly in an airplane or scuba dive until your doctor tells you it is okay.
• Do not smoke or allow others to smoke around you. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You have severe trouble breathing.
• You have severe chest pain.
• You passed out (lost consciousness).

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have new or worse trouble breathing.
• You have new pain or your pain gets worse.
• You cough up blood.
• Your chest tube comes out or is bent or blocked.
• You are bleeding through the bandage where the tube was put in.
• You have symptoms of infection where the tube was put in, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from the area.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• The skin around the place where the chest tube was put in is red or irritated.
• You do not get better as expected.

Where can you learn more?

Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter Q132 in the search box to learn more about “Collapsed Lung: Care Instructions”.

Spontaneous pneumothorax in Kyiv – private clinic Oberig. Pneumothorax, spontaneous

Pneumothorax is an accumulation of air in the pleural cavity. With pneumothorax, the lung collapses. Lung collapse can be partial (limited) or complete.

Spontaneous pneumothorax is not associated with lung injury, infectious destruction of lung tissue, or medical procedures. There are primary spontaneous pneumothorax, which develops in patients without clinically significant signs of lung pathology, and secondary – arising against the background of existing lung diseases.

Rarely, pneumothorax occurs due to a non-pulmonary pathology, such as catamenial pneumothorax. It occurs 24 hours before or within 72 hours after the onset of menstruation, and is caused by foci of endometriosis in the chest cavity.

Bullous emphysema is the cause of primary spontaneous pneumothorax in 90% of cases. With this disease, so-called bullae are formed in the lungs – small thin-walled cavities filled with air. The bullae may rupture, and then air enters the pleural cavity. In the prevention of pneumothorax, smoking cessation is of great importance, which contributes to the development of chronic lung diseases, including bullous emphysema.

DIAGNOSTICS OF SPONTANEOUS PNEUMOTHORAX

The main diagnostic method for spontaneous pneumothorax is radiography. In most cases, radiography is sufficient to confirm or exclude the diagnosis of pneumothorax. The doctor sees on x-ray a thin line of visceral pleura that is separated from the chest, or other signs of pneumothorax.

If in doubt, computed tomography (CT) is performed. This method is useful for the diagnosis of small pneumothoraxes, as well as the differential diagnosis of large bullae and pneumothorax. CT is also used to determine the cause of secondary spontaneous pneumothorax.

SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS OF SPONTANEOUS PNEUMOTHORAX

Spontaneous pneumothorax usually occurs suddenly, against the background of normal health. Although in some cases it can be provoked by physical activity, coughing, sudden movement.

The main symptoms of spontaneous pneumothorax are shortness of breath, chest pain, dry cough. The pain can be both sharp and aching, weak. It is most pronounced in the first hours after the collapse of the lung. The pain is caused by the irritating effect of air on the pleural sheets. Gives to the neck, less often to the stomach or arm. The disease is easily confused with intercostal neuralgia.

The consequences of pneumothorax can be dangerous. If a large amount of air accumulates in the pleural cavity, the mediastinal organs, including the heart, are displaced. Other complications include hemothorax, an accumulation of blood in the chest cavity.

TREATMENT OF SPONTANEOUS PNEUMOTHORAX

A patient diagnosed with pneumothorax is admitted to a specialized thoracic unit. Treatment includes three stages: expansion of the lung, determination of the causes of pneumothorax, and surgery.

Drainage of the pleural cavity is used to evacuate air and expand the lung. At the same time, diagnostic thoracoscopy is performed, which allows you to examine the chest organs and identify the cause of pneumothorax.

Spontaneous pneumothorax often recurs (in 30-50% of cases). Each episode increases the risk of the next relapse exponentially. Therefore, with spontaneous pneumothorax, surgery is indicated to prevent re-collapse of the lung.

Surgical treatment includes removal of the altered area of ​​the lung and pleurodesis – the formation of an fusion of the lung and chest wall, which protects the patient from relapses.

Today, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery is the method of choice. The intervention is carried out through small punctures and is less traumatic. Rehabilitation after videothoracoscopic surgery for spontaneous pneumothorax is faster.

The duration of disability and return to normal life is reduced by 3-4 times. Also, thoracoscopy provides an excellent cosmetic effect, which is especially important for women.

Oberig Universal Clinic has a powerful diagnostic base and the most modern video-assisted thoracoscopic equipment from the world’s leading manufacturers.

Make an appointment with highly qualified specialists of the Thoraco-Pulmonology Center by phone:

(044) 521 30 03

How to save a person in case of an accident (accident)

This is not an easy, but important post. I will tell you what to do if suddenly you witness a serious injury or injury. The instructions in this post are reliable and tested by the military during conflicts, but they can be useful to the common man in times of peace. We drive cars, go hiking, etc. – there are enough potential dangers.

The vast majority of people who die in war do not die from mortal wounds, but from a lack of primary health care. The statistics of the causes of death are distributed as follows:

– 60% of people die from blood loss
– 30% from pneumothorax (collapse of the lung)
– 8% from airway obstruction
– 2% from hypothermia

In each of these cases, it is possible and first aid is needed to save the victim’s life. Under the cut, I want to tell you in detail about each case . ..

The first thing you should do when you see an injured person is find a first aid kit. The military has a number of rules about this. For example, each soldier should have his own first aid kit. If you are wounded, then you will be treated only by what they find in your first-aid kit. None of their own will get anything for you. If you don’t have a bandage or tourniquet, then this is your problem – no one will give you yours. They will leave you to die.

A first aid kit should be nearby so you don’t have to fumble around in the bottom of your backpack and look for it. If you are in a public place, think about where the first aid kit might be: in cars, offices, etc.

The most important thing in a first aid kit is a tourniquet. It is he who saves in 60% of cases when it is necessary to stop rapid blood loss. The military has special harnesses, such as in the photo. A plastic stick is used as a lever to tighten the tourniquet even more:

3.

Trying to place the tourniquet:

4.

The tension should be strong enough to occlude the artery. It hurts:

5.

You can check the tension with your finger. If it gets under the tourniquet, tighten even more:

6.

Before applying the tourniquet, it is necessary, if possible, to clamp the artery. For example, when a leg is wounded, the artery is clamped on the abdomen:

7.

Done. The stick is fixed in a special puff. It is necessary to indicate on it (or remember for an ambulance in civilian conditions) the time of installation of the tourniquet. The fact is that the tourniquet cannot be kept for more than 2 hours in the warm season and no more than 1 hour in the cold, otherwise gangrene will begin.

It is also important to remember that only doctors can remove the tourniquet after 15 minutes. During this time, blood clots are formed that can scatter throughout the body and cause cardiac arrest:

8.

If the tourniquet is not available, any cloth can be used. Well, or effectively rip off your shirt, like in a Hollywood movie. Instead of a stick, for example, a pen or a telephone is suitable:

9.

Quite a lot of time was devoted to exercises with a tourniquet. We tried to apply a tourniquet with a face mask that simulated conditions of complete darkness. In fact, it was necessary to perform this operation by touch:

10.

In such conditions, there are problems. For example, Sergei lost his tourniquet, and it took a lot of time to find it:

11.

Using a military tourniquet is much easier than building a bandage from improvised means:

12.

Speaking of special equipment: pulling a wounded man out of a dangerous place There are different ways. For example, using such a belt. Ideally, you should throw him to the wounded man from behind cover and he should wrap himself around himself so that you only have to drag him:

13.

The military can also shoot back:

14.

The classes were very plausible. They brought us light pigs, which are very similar to human ones. On them we practiced obstruction of the respiratory tract:

15.

Unfortunately, in order to prevent a tragedy in this case, a tool is needed: tubes that will straighten the airways. It is impossible to build this from improvised means:

16.

The tube is inserted into the nose. It’s painful and unpleasant. A very strange feeling – you put the tube in your nose and feel the other end in your throat:

17.

Pneumothorax is when air accumulates in the pleural cavity and compresses the lung. This can occur as a result of a wound in the chest, after which a person cannot breathe and dies from suffocation:

18.

Exhaust the area around the lung and let it expand. First, you need to seal the wounds. For this, there are special plasters in the first-aid kit. If the wound is through, it must be sealed on both sides:

19.

Then it is necessary to pierce the chest in order to release the accumulated air. Stab should be between the ribs, 4 cm from the collarbone below, under the second rib:

20.

Or prick between the ribs under the armpit:

21.

The chest is pierced with a special needle. When in films they use a plastic case from a pen for this, this is nonsense. You can’t pierce such a thickness with plastic:

22.

A tube with a needle allows you to pierce the chest and release air by pulling out the needle:

23.

If the wound is in the neck, you must raise your arm and bandage it under the armpit. When after that the person lowers his hand, the bandage will squeeze the wound:

24.

And finally, the composition of the military first aid kit:
– Tourniquet (tourniquet)
– Cloth that stops the blood
– Tube for the respiratory tract
– Plaster to seal the wound chest
– Chest needle
– Scissors for cutting clothes
– Bandages
– Thermal blanket

25.