Call 995 if sudden chest pain comes with shortness of breath, especially after an injury or if breathing is getting harder. A collapsed lung, also called a pneumothorax, is one possible cause. Call immediately if the person collapses, looks blue or grey, or cannot speak normally because they are breathless. MOH guidance on calling 995 · National University Heart Centre pneumothorax guide · NHS shortness of breath warning signs
A pneumothorax occurs when air collects between the lung and chest wall, causing part or all of a lung to collapse. It can happen after an injury or without an obvious injury. Emergency assessment is needed to identify the cause of sudden chest pain and breathing difficulty. NUHS pneumothorax diagnosis and treatment · National University Heart Centre pneumothorax guide · NHG Health pneumothorax guidance
- Sudden chest pain with breathlessness → call 995.
- Say when it began and whether there was any chest injury.
- Keep the person at rest and follow dispatcher instructions.
On this page · What the Emergency Team May Check · What to Tell Responders · Frequently Asked Questions
What the Emergency Team May Check
NUHS notes that pneumothorax is usually diagnosed with a chest X-ray. The team will assess breathing and decide what treatment is needed. A severe pneumothorax can increase pressure in the chest and interfere with blood flow. NUHS pneumothorax diagnosis and treatment · National University Heart Centre pneumothorax guide
What to Tell Responders
Give the time the pain and breathlessness began and say if either symptom is worsening. Mention any recent injury, known lung disease or previous collapsed lung. If there was an impact, describe what struck the chest and whether the person also fell. SCDF emergency medical services · NHG Health pneumothorax guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can it happen without an accident?
Yes. Air can leak from the lung without an external injury. Seek emergency help for sudden chest pain with breathlessness. NUHS pneumothorax diagnosis and treatment · MOH guidance on calling 995
Can I tell from which side hurts?
Pain location is useful to report, but medical assessment and imaging help determine the cause. NUHS pneumothorax diagnosis and treatment