What Causes A Hemothorax?

When a hemothorax occurs, blood can be found in the pleural space around the lungs. This blood may be coming from the chest wall, lung, heart, or blood vessels. In many cases, a hemothorax remains a result of an injury. A hemothorax must be treated immediately to avoid serious medical consequences. Blood in the thorax region is usually accompanied by excess air around the lungs. So treatment may involve removing both blood and air from the body using a tube inserted into the chest between the ribs. Get to know the various causes of a hemothorax in great detail with this article.

Blunt Force Trauma To The Chest

In many cases, a hemothorax occurs due to an injury or blunt force trauma to the chest. This trauma causes blood to collect in the pleural cavity, which is in between the chest wall and the lungs. Once the blood enters the pleural cavity, it can only be removed by a medical procedure. Even a tiny injury can cause bleeding to happen in the chest wall and lungs and cause a hemothorax. A hemothorax due to trauma may also cause the pleural space to rupture. If an individual has blunt force trauma due to a car accident, altercation, or sports injury, their lungs need to be inspected for possible damage and bleeding.

Learn about other causes of a hemothorax now.