Air bubble skin, more accurately described as subcutaneous emphysema, occurs when air becomes trapped beneath the skin. This condition isn't about bubbles on the surface, but rather air infiltrating the tissue layers just below the skin.
Understanding Subcutaneous Emphysema
According to the reference provided, subcutaneous emphysema happens when air gets into tissues under the skin.
Key Points
- Location: While it often appears on the chest or neck, it can occur anywhere on the body.
- Cause: It's generally not caused by an issue with the skin itself. It's due to air escaping from other sources in the body and working its way under the skin.
- Feeling: The skin affected by subcutaneous emphysema may feel like it's crackling when pressed - similar to the sensation of touching bubble wrap.
What it Looks and Feels Like
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Can cause swelling under the skin that you might see as puffiness or a lump. |
| Feeling | The area may feel like it has a crackling or popping sensation when touched (crepitus) |
| Location | Commonly chest and neck, but can appear anywhere on the body |
How it Develops
While it may sound like a superficial problem, subcutaneous emphysema stems from air leaking from other parts of the body. Here's a list of potential origins:
- Lung Issues: A leak from a punctured lung can cause air to travel upwards towards the skin.
- Airway Problems: A tear in the trachea or bronchi can cause air to leak under the skin.
- Surgical Complications: After certain surgical procedures, especially those around the chest, neck or lungs.
- Injuries: Trauma, like a deep cut or broken bone, that injures the airways or lungs can lead to subcutaneous emphysema.
- Medical Procedures: Some medical procedures can introduce air that ends up under the skin.
Is it Serious?
- Often an Indication of an Underlying Issue: Subcutaneous emphysema itself isn't usually life-threatening, but it's a symptom of a more serious problem, therefore should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
- Potential for Complications: Depending on what caused the air leak, there can be risks for further issues.
- Important to Seek Medical Help: If you notice a crackling under your skin, especially if it's accompanied by shortness of breath or other symptoms, it's important to see a doctor immediately.
In summary, "air bubble skin" isn't a skin condition itself, but rather the term used to describe the symptom of subcutaneous emphysema, where air becomes trapped beneath the skin tissue, often caused by an underlying medical issue.
