Pneumomediastinum

When air escapes from the airways and accumulates in the central area of the chest, between the lungs, we speak of pneumomediastinum. It is the presence of air in the mediastinum, the space that houses the heart, the trachea, and other structures.

Common causes: It can arise after intense straining, a hard cough, trauma, or spontaneously; at times it is related to prior lung problems.

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

Which specialist treats it? The pulmonologist and the cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon evaluate its origin and follow-up. When there is chest pain or shortness of breath of sudden onset, the appropriate action is to seek professional care without delay.