In an inspiring display of resilience, Divyansh, a native of Charkhi Dadri in Haryana, achieved the All India Rank-1 in the NEET UG 2024, securing a perfect score of 720. This remarkable feat is even more impressive considering the significant health challenges he faced in the months leading up to the exam. In July 2023, Divyansh battled both pneumothorax, a serious lung condition, and dengue fever.
“After recovering from the lung condition, I contracted dengue. I was bedridden for a week due to dengue, and once I recovered, my mother fell ill. I took care of her and visited the hospital daily. Once everything was sorted, I restarted. It took about 10-15 days to get back on track. Other students were far ahead in the syllabus, but I focused on myself and followed my teachers’ guidance,” he shared in an exclusive interview with IndianExpress.com.
Divyansh’s determination and success are a testament to his strength and dedication. His experience also brings to light the medical condition known as pneumothorax, which he courageously overcame. Here’s a deeper look into pneumothorax, its symptoms, causes, and treatments.
Understanding Pneumothorax
Pneumothorax, commonly referred to as a collapsed lung, occurs when air leaks into the space between the chest wall and the lung (the pleural space). This air buildup exerts pressure on the lung, causing it to collapse either partially or fully. It is also known as a punctured lung.
Symptoms of Pneumothorax
Recognizing the symptoms of pneumothorax is crucial, as it can be a medical emergency. Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain: Typically felt on one side, especially when taking deep breaths.
- Coughing: A dry, persistent cough.
- Rapid breathing and heart rate: A fast breathing rate (tachypnea) and an accelerated heart rate (tachycardia).
- Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and weakness.
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea): Difficulty in breathing.
- Cyanosis: A bluish tint to the skin, lips, or nails, indicating low oxygen levels.
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention, as prompt treatment is often required.
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Causes of Pneumothorax
Pneumothorax can result from various medical conditions, injuries, and lifestyle factors. Here are some common causes:
- Medical Conditions: Medical conditions like asthma, cystic fibrosis, COPD, pneumonia, tuberculosis, lung cancer, etc. can lead to a collapsed lung.
- Injuries: Blunt force traumas as well as penetrating injuries can cause pneumothorax.
- Lifestyle Factors: Apart from smoking and drug use, physical activities that involve drastic change in air pressure can cause severe distress to the lungs.
Treatment for Pneumothorax
The treatment for pneumothorax depends on the severity and cause of the condition. Here are the common treatment options:
Observation
For minor cases, doctors may opt for a watchful waiting approach, monitoring the patient for any signs of heart or breathing problems.
Oxygen Therapy
Supplemental oxygen can help speed up the absorption of air trapped in the pleural space.
Thoracentesis
A temporary needle is inserted between the ribs to remove the air in the chest.
Chest Tube Drainage
For larger pneumothoraxes, a tube is inserted into the chest to drain the air, allowing the lung to re-expand. This tube may remain in place for several days.
Chemical Pleurodesis
To prevent recurrence, a chemical agent is used to adhere the lung to the chest wall, eliminating the pleural space.
Surgery
In cases where other treatments fail or the pneumothorax recurs, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options include repairing the lung and preventing further air leakage.
Bottomline
Divyansh’s journey to the top of the NEET UG 2024 ranks, despite his battle with pneumothorax and dengue, is a story of incredible perseverance. His experience not only highlights the importance of determination in overcoming obstacles but also brings awareness to pneumothorax, a serious medical condition. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatments can be crucial for timely and effective medical intervention, potentially saving lives.