Double Sided Pneumothorax

I had a spontaneous pneumothorax about 2 months ago - chest tube in for 7 days, several recollapses, and finally VATS surgery and bleb resection. I still have pain on that side, which is expected, but about 1 month ago I started having intermittent pain on the right side. Lately it has been much worse, more frequent and aching.

Could this happen on the other side, in such a short period of time? Doc said he thought he saw something suspicious on the other lung in the CT scan.

Should I go to the doctor or wait until I am 100% certain it has collapsed?

[HeinrikMD]

Hi,

A pneumothorax occurs because of a risk factor, which may be cysts in the lungs or a specific lung disease. The occurrence of one pneumothorax would not preclude the occurrence of another. Hence,if your symptoms are similar to the documented pneumothorax, an investigation would be in order. The severity would vary depending on the amount of gas that is abnormally accumulated.
In brief, when in doubt, best have yourself examined.
Stay positive.

[msmitty]

Also - I broke out in a rash on my face/upper body 1 week ago... possibly related? I am generally over concerned about my health these days, but don't want to go to the hospital  if i don't need to...

[HeinrikMD]

Hi,

While there are conditions which would present with a rash along with some involvement of the lung, most of the conditions that produce a pneumothorax do not specifically have a characteristic rash. This other symptom may be an independent phenomenon.