General Information About Atelectasis
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the condition of the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs being deprived of air and shrinking, causing that part of the lung to collapse.
It usually occurs due to dense sputum plugs blocking the bronchi, foreign bodies, or tumors. In addition, the shallowing of breathing after long surgeries under general anesthesia is a common cause.
Although it varies depending on the size of the collapsed lung tissue; sudden onset shortness of breath, shallow and rapid breathing, coughing, and chest pain are the most prominent complaints.
In pneumothorax, air escapes into the pleural space around the lung, compressing the lung from the outside. In atelectasis, the airways within the lung itself are blocked, and the tissue shrinks because the internal pressure drops.
The inability to hear breath sounds from the collapsed area during a physical examination raises suspicion. The collapsed area is clearly identified with a chest X-ray and computed tomography (CT).
The main goal is to clear the blockage. The lung is restored to its former state with breathing exercises (use of triflo), expectorant medications, and, when necessary, cleaning the plugs by entering the airways with a camera (bronchoscopy).
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
