Can Collapsed Lung cause death?

A collapsed lung, or pneumothorax, can be life-threatening in certain situations, but with prompt treatment, the risk of death is generally low. The most dangerous form of pneumothorax is tension pneumothorax, where air becomes trapped in the pleural space, increasing pressure on the lungs and heart. This can cause severe breathing difficulty, low blood pressure, and, if not treated immediately, cardiac arrest.

A large pneumothorax can also impair breathing, leading to dangerously low oxygen levels, especially in individuals with underlying lung conditions such as COPD or asthma. If left untreated or if it recurs frequently, pneumothorax may cause lasting lung damage, further complicating a person’s health.