Which symptom is commonly associated with a simple pneumothorax?

• A. Sudden sharp chest pain
• B. Gradual mild cough
• C. Persistent fever
• D. Skin rash

Answer: (A)

Sudden sharp chest pain is the hallmark symptom of a simple pneumothorax. When air leaks into the pleural space, the lung partially collapses and the pleural lining becomes irritated, producing abrupt, sharp pain that worsens with deep breaths or coughing. Shortness of breath may accompany it, but the onset is typically immediate rather than gradual. The other options don’t fit because a gradual mild cough suggests bronchitis or irritation rather than a collapsed lung; persistent fever points to infection such as pneumonia; a skin rash is not related to a pneumothorax.