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Chest Tightness with Cycling Turned Out To Be Pneumomediastinum
1Department of Internal Medicine, Cape Cod Hospital, Hyannis, MA, USA.
The American Journal of Case Reports
|May 1, 2023
Summary
Cycling may cause pneumomediastinum (air in the chest cavity), particularly in those with asthma. This case highlights prolonged cycling as a potential risk factor, emphasizing careful consideration for athletes.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Emergency Medicine
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Pneumomediastinum, or air in the mediastinum, often presents with chest pain and shortness of breath.
- Risk factors include asthma and COVID-19; most cases resolve with conservative management.
- Surgery is typically reserved for complicated or tension pneumomediastinum.
Observation:
- A 23-year-old male with a history of asthma experienced chest tightness after 3.5 hours of cycling.
- No recent asthma exacerbation or other apparent triggers were reported.
- Imaging confirmed pneumomediastinum.
Findings:
- The patient received conservative, supportive care without surgical intervention.
- Symptom improvement was observed within 24 hours.
- Follow-up imaging demonstrated resolution of the pneumomediastinum.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential link between prolonged cycling and the development of pneumomediastinum.
- Athletes, especially those with a history of pneumomediastinum or asthma, should be aware of this risk.
- Physicians should consider cycling as a potential cause in patients presenting with relevant symptoms.
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