What happens when the alveoli are broken?

Pneumothorax or mediastinal emphysema may occur when the alveoli rupture. When the alveoli near the pleura rupture, they may break into the pleural space and cause pneumothorax. If the alveoli near the mediastinum rupture, they may break into the mediastinum and cause mediastinal pneumatosis. This condition is called mediastinal emphysema. Both pneumothorax and mediastinal emphysema may cause chest tightness and dyspnea. Sometimes chest pain may also be caused. In severe cases, respiratory failure or even respiratory cardiac arrest may occur.