Neck pain and dyspnea in a swimmer: Spontaneous pneumomediastinum presentation and return-to-play considerations

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.