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| Alternative Names: | Mediastinal emphysema
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| Treatment: | Often, no treatment is required as the air is gradually absorbed from the mediastinum. If pneumomediastinum is accompanied by pneumothorax, a chest tube may be placed. Breathing high concentrations of oxygen may allow the air in the mediastinum to be absorbed more quickly.
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| Expectations (prognosis): | The outlook depends on the disease or events that caused the pneumomediastinum.
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| Complications: | In rare cases, so much air may accumulate in the mediastinum that veins are compressed, leading to low blood pressure.
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| Calling your health care provider: | Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have severe chest pain or difficulty breathing.
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Review Date: 2/1/2003
Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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