title: Neck Pain and Dyspnea in a Swimmer: Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum Presentation and Return-to-Play Considerations.
abstract: Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is usually a benign, self-limiting condition in which retrosternal chest pain is the most common complaint and subcutaneous emphysema is the most prevalent physical finding. Chest radiographs confirm the diagnosis. A case report of a 19-year-old college swimmer who initially reported anterior neck pain demonstrates the importance of avoiding complications such as pneumothorax with careful monitoring, outpatient management, and cessation of athletic activities. After 7 to 10 days patients can slowly resume sports if symptoms do not recur.
authors.affiliation: Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
authors.forename: R T
authors.initials: RT
authors.lastname: Ferro
authors.forename: D B
authors.initials: DB
authors.lastname: McKeag