A pneumothorax occurs when free air accumulates in the cavity of the chest and causes the lungs to collapse. A spontaneous pneumothorax occurs on its own that is, there is no underlying cause and it can resolve on its own while a secondary pneumothorax takes place as result of an underlying condition such as lung disease or injury to the lungs. The pleural space is the area within the chest cavity but outside the lungs and when the air enters this area through a hole in the lung or the chest wall, then the pressure in the pleural space becomes equal to the pressure outside the body.
This pressure which is normally kept negative by the creation of a vacuum by the lungs causes the collapse of the lung. Lung infections, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma can also lead to pneumothorax. The main symptoms are severe pain in the chest, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, cough, fatigue, rapid breathing and a decrease of oxygen level in the blood.
5 Home Remedies For Pneumothorax
Ginger
Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which bring quick relief in the cough and fatigue by removing all the harmful toxins from the body and stimulating the blood circulation. Boil a cup of water and add one teaspoon of grated ginger to it.
Continue boiling on a low heat for a few seconds then turn off the heat and cover the pan. After ten minutes strain the tea and drink three cups of it daily.
Deep Breathing Exercise
Sit on a mat in a cross legged position with your back straight. Press your right nostril with the thumb of your right hand and breathe deeply through your left nostril. Fill your lungs with air and let your chest expand as much as possible forcing your abdomen out.
Now press the left nostril with your ring finger and exhale slowly. Again take a deep breath through the right nostril while keeping your left nostril closed and pressing your right nostril closed, exhale through the left nostril. Repeat this exercise for ten minutes everyday.
Tulsi Or Holy Basil
Tulsi has powerful medicinal values which can heal and cure a vast number of diseases and ailments and provide relief in all kinds of respiratory problems.
Boil a cup of water and add five to six fresh tulsi leaves to it. Simmer for a few seconds then turn off the heat and cover the pan. After ten minutes strain the tea and drink three cups of it daily.
Mustard Oil
Mustard oil has heat producing and rubefacient properties which not only stimulate the blood circulation and increase the flow of blood but also alleviate the muscle stiffness in the chest and reduce the pain.
Heat some mustard oil in a pan and dissolve a piece of camphor into it. Massage your chest and back with this oil for twenty minutes twice daily.
Eucalyptus Oil
Massage the chest and the back with eucalyptus oil to ease the pain and discomfort in the chest. Eucalyptus oil will also decongest the chest and make breathing easier.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.