Breathing is something we do without thinking—but the moment it becomes difficult, it can turn into a life-threatening emergency. Pulmonary emergencies involve sudden problems in the lungs or airways that require immediate medical attention. Early recognition and timely treatment can save lives.

In this blog, we’ll explore the most common pulmonary emergencies, what causes them, warning signs to look for, and when to seek urgent medical help.

1. Acute Severe Asthma

Asthma attacks can usually be controlled with inhalers, but sometimes the airways become so tight and inflamed that medications stop working. This condition, known as status asthmaticus, is a true medical emergency.

Causes

  • Viral infections
  • Allergens like dust, pollen, or pet dander
  • Cold air exposure
  • Smoke or pollution
  • Missing regular inhaled medicines

Warning Signs

  • Severe shortness of breath
  • Wheezing that suddenly stops (a dangerous sign)
  • Chest tightness
  • Difficulty speaking full sentences
  • Blue lips or fingers

2. Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot in the lungs, usually traveling from the legs. PE blocks blood flow and can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Risk Factors

  • Long flights or prolonged sitting
  • Recent surgery
  • Pregnancy
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Cancer
  • Birth control pills

Symptoms

  • Sudden breathlessness
  • Sharp chest pain
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Coughing blood
  • Feeling faint or collapsing

3. Pneumonia (Severe or Fast-Spreading)

While mild pneumonia is common, severe pneumonia can progress quickly, especially in the elderly, smokers, or people with diabetes or lung diseases like COPD.

Symptoms

  • High fever
  • Rapid breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Cough with yellow or green sputum
  • Confusion in elderly patients

4. Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)

A pneumothorax happens when air leaks into the space around the lungs, causing the lung to collapse. It may occur spontaneously or after trauma.

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden, sharp chest pain
  • Sudden breathlessness
  • Feeling of tightness in the chest

5. Acute Exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD)

Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease can suddenly worsen due to infection, pollution, or weather changes.

Symptoms

  • Rapid breathing
  • Increased cough
  • Change in sputum colour
  • Wheezing or chest tightness

6. Foreign Body Aspiration

Foreign objects like food particles, small toys (in children), or even tablets can accidentally enter the airway.

Symptoms

  • Sudden choking
  • Persistent coughing
  • Wheezing on one side
  • In severe cases: silent airway (no sound while trying to breathe)

7. Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

ARDS is a severe form of lung inflammation where fluid fills the lungs, making oxygen exchange extremely difficult.

Causes

  • Severe infection
  • Trauma
  • Sepsis
  • COVID-19
  • Pancreatitis

When to Seek Emergency Help?

Call emergency services or visit the nearest hospital immediately if anyone has:

  • Sudden severe shortness of breath
  • Blue lips, tongue, or fingertips
  • Inability to speak due to breathlessness
  • Chest pain with breathing difficulties
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Severe wheezing that doesn’t improve with inhalers
  • Sudden choking

How to Reduce the Risk of Pulmonary Emergencies

  • Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke
  • Take asthma/COPD medicines regularly
  • Stay vaccinated (flu, pneumonia)
  • Stay active and maintain healthy weight
  • Avoid long periods of sitting—move every 1–2 hours
  • Manage allergies
  • Seek medical help early for chest infections

Pulmonary emergencies can escalate quickly, but timely recognition and medical intervention can save lives. Understanding the symptoms and acting fast is crucial.