What are potential complications that can occur with a punctured lung?

Just like your body, your lungs can only take so much. When a truck accident caused a few of your ribs to break and then pierce your lungs, you knew that recovery would be a process. You didn’t expect to encounter as many obstacles as you did.

Common Problems With Punctured Lungs

You received the best care possible at St. Joseph Medical Center, but even that couldn’t prevent the complications you endured during your recovery. Many punctured lung patients also suffer from other setbacks, such as:

  • Pneumothorax. Also called a collapsed lung, pneumothorax can occur when a lung is punctured. When air escapes the lungs, it collects and becomes trapped in the space around the lungs. The pressure can cause the lungs to collapse and also endangers the heart.
  • Hypoxemia. As you may imagine, a punctured lung can make it difficult to get the oxygen you need in order to feel good and survive. In fact, not getting the oxygen you need because of the puncture can lead to hypoxemia, in which oxygen-poor blood is unable to supply cells, tissues, and organs with the oxygen they need.
  • Infection. A punctured lung is prone to experiencing severe infection that can cause significant problems. Perhaps the most common infection is pneumonia, which can lead to life-threatening problems, particularly in the elderly.
  • Scar tissue. As your lungs heal, they may develop scar tissue at the site of the puncture. This tough tissue can cause permanent breathing difficulties, as it can interfere with the expansion and contraction during inhalation and exhalation.

You Deserve Compensation

Between the medical bills and the time lost from work, a punctured lung can cost you lots of money. Attorney Steve Lee may be able to help you recover the compensation you need to pay for those fees. Visit our testimonials page to read reviews from some of our valued clients.

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