Pneumomediastinum (patient information)
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Pneumomediastinum |
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Pneumomediastinum On the Web |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Trusha Tank, M.D.[2]
Overview
Pneumomediastinum is air in the mediastinum. The mediastinum is the space in the middle of the chest, between the lungs and around the heart.
What are the Symptoms of pneumomediastinum?
- There may be no symptoms.
- The condition usually causes chest pain behind the breastbone, which may spread to the neck or arms.
- The pain may be worse when you take a breath or swallow.
What Causes pneumomediastinum?
Pneumomediastinum is uncommon. The condition can be caused by injury or disease. Most often, it occurs when air leaks from any part of the lung or airways into the mediastinum.
Increased pressure in the lungs or airways may be caused by:
- Too much coughing
- Repeated bearing down to increase abdominal pressure (such as pushing during childbirth or a bowel movement)
- Sneezing
- Vomiting
It may also happen after:
- An infection in the neck or center of the chest
- Rapid rises in altitude, or scuba diving
- Tearing of the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth and stomach)
- Tearing of the trachea (windpipe)
- Use of a breathing machine
- Use of inhaled recreational drugs, such as marijuana or crack cocaine
- Surgery
Pneumomediastinum also can occur with collapsed lung (pneumothorax) or other diseases.
Who is at Highest Risk?
Diagnosis
When to Seek Urgent Medical Care?
Treatment Options
Where to find Medical Care for pneumomediastinum?
Medical care for (disease name) can be found here.
Prevention
What to Expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Possible Complications
Sources
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000434.htm