Does Collapsed Lung cause back pain?

Yes, a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) can potentially cause back pain, though it is not one of the most common symptoms. Here’s why:

1. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain from the chest or lung area can radiate to the back, particularly if the collapsed lung is significant or the result of trauma. This is called referred pain, where the brain interprets pain from one area of the body as coming from another.
2. Muscle Strain: The effort to breathe more deeply or to compensate for difficulty breathing can strain the muscles in the back and chest, leading to soreness or discomfort.
3. Postural Changes: If the collapse causes significant pain or difficulty breathing, the body might adopt an abnormal posture to minimize discomfort. This can put extra strain on the back muscles.

However, back pain alone is not a typical symptom of a collapsed lung. The most common symptoms are sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, and sometimes coughing. If back pain is accompanied by chest pain or difficulty breathing, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention as these could be signs of a pneumothorax.