Atelectasis

Atelectasis is the collapse of one or more sections, or lobes, of the lungs. When you breathe in, the lungs normally expand to fill with air. With atelectasis, a blockage in or pressure in the area around the lung (pleura) keeps the lung from expanding.

What causes atelectasis?

Atelectasis is caused by a blocked airway, or from pressure from outside the lung. Some causes include:

• An object or tumor in an airway

• Mucus blocking an airway

• Certain lung diseases, including infections

• Fluid or air buildup in the space around the lung (pleura)

What are the symptoms of atelectasis?

The symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing

• Pain in the chest

How is atelectasis diagnosed?

You may have one or more of the following tests:

• Lab tests to check the level of oxygen and other gases in the blood.

• Chest X-rays create images of the lungs.

• CT scans create detailed pictures of the lungs.

• Bronchoscopy allows the healthcare provider to see inside the airways using a bronchoscope.

How is atelectasis treated?

Treating the underlying cause often allows the lung to re-expand. Pneumonia (a serious lung infection) often occurs when the lung collapses. In order to help the lung tissue re-expand and prevent pneumonia, the following treatments may be prescribed:

• Chest percussion to loosen mucus and help prevent pneumonia. It involves clapping on the chest with a cupped hand.

• Postural drainage to help drain mucus from the lungs. It requires lying in certain positions for a given amount of time.

• Deep breathing exercises to help expand the lungs and clear mucus. They also help prevent pneumonia.

• Incentive spirometry to encourage deep breathing

• Inhaled medicines to open up the airway. If infection is present, antibiotics may also be given.

• Bronchoscopy to remove secretions or foreign objects that may be causing the blockage.