Mediastinal Emphysema

Mediastinal emphysema, also called pneumomediastinum, is the presence of air in the mediastinum, the space in the chest located between the lungs where the heart and other structures are housed.

Common causes: It can arise from intense straining, a hard cough, chest injuries, or air leaks from the airways or the digestive tract.

Common symptoms: Chest pain that sometimes increases with breathing, difficulty breathing, and, at times, a crackling sensation under the skin of the neck.

Which specialist treats it? The cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon is the one who evaluates cases affecting this region of the chest. When there is sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing, the most appropriate action is to seek medical care for a timely evaluation.