Atelectasis – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Atelectasis occurs when a lung or part of a lung collapses because the tiny air sacs (alveoli) lose air.
This respiratory condition commonly develops after surgery but can also result from other health issues like cystic fibrosis, lung tumors, chest injuries, fluid accumulation in the lungs, or respiratory weakness.
Sometimes, breathing in a foreign object can trigger atelectasis. This condition differs from pneumothorax, which happens when air leaks into the space between the lungs and chest wall. Pneumothorax is actually one potential cause of atelectasis.
Common causes of atelectasis include:
- Post-surgical complications
- Cystic fibrosis
- Lung tumors
- Chest injuries
- Fluid in the lungs
- Respiratory muscle weakness
- Foreign object inhalation
People with existing lung disease may find breathing particularly difficult when atelectasis develops.
Treatment approaches vary based on the underlying cause and severity of the collapse. Medical professionals typically develop personalized treatment plans after diagnosing the specific type and extent of the lung collapse.
Signs of Atelectasis
Atelectasis may not show clear symptoms in some cases. When symptoms do appear, they might include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Fast, shallow breathing
- Wheezing sounds when breathing
- Persistent cough
These symptoms can vary in severity depending on how much lung tissue is affected.
When Medical Care Is Needed
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any breathing difficulties. Since many conditions can cause breathing problems, getting an accurate diagnosis is essential for proper treatment.
If you suddenly find it hard to breathe, don’t wait—get emergency help right away. Prompt medical care can prevent complications and provide relief.
Causes of Atelectasis
Atelectasis happens when parts of the lungs collapse. This condition has two main types: obstructive atelectasis (from blocked airways) and nonobstructive atelectasis (from outside pressure on lungs).
Blocked Airways
When air passages get blocked, air can’t reach certain parts of the lungs. Common causes include:
Mucus buildup: Thick secretions can plug airways, especially after surgery when pain medication affects normal breathing and coughing. This is particularly common after heart bypass surgery.
Foreign objects: Children sometimes inhale small items like nuts or toy parts that block airflow.
Growths in airways: Tumors (cancerous or non-cancerous) can narrow or completely block air passages.
External Pressure
Sometimes the lungs collapse because something pushes against them from outside:
Chest injuries: Trauma from accidents or falls can make deep breathing painful, leading to shallow breathing and collapsed lung areas.
Fluid around the lungs: When fluid collects between the lung and chest wall (pleural effusion), it presses on the lung.
Lung infections: Different types of pneumonia can lead to atelectasis.
Air leaks: When air escapes into the space between the lung and chest wall (pneumothorax), parts of the lung may collapse.
Scar tissue: Previous lung damage, disease, or surgical procedures can cause scarring that pulls on lung tissue.
Large tumors: Growths in the chest can compress the lung, forcing air out.
General Anesthesia
Almost everyone who undergoes major surgery experiences some degree of atelectasis. The medications used for general anesthesia change normal breathing patterns and affect gas exchange in the lungs.
Anesthesia makes breathing more shallow and suppresses the natural coughing reflex. This allows secretions to build up and can prevent air from fully inflating parts of the lungs.
People with certain conditions face higher risks, including those with cystic fibrosis, severe asthma, or chronic lung diseases.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase your chances of developing atelectasis:
Medical Conditions
- Swallowing difficulties
- Lung diseases (asthma, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis)
- Weak breathing muscles from muscular dystrophy or spinal cord injuries
- Pain or injuries that make coughing difficult (like broken ribs)
Treatments and Procedures
- Recent surgery in the abdomen or chest
- General anesthesia
- Medications that weaken breathing
- Extended bed rest without position changes
Lifestyle Factors
- Smoking
Possible Health Issues
When the lung tissue collapses (atelectasis), several problems can develop, especially if left untreated. Even small areas of collapse usually need medical attention.
Oxygen Shortage in Blood
The collapsed lung tissue can’t properly exchange oxygen, leading to low blood oxygen levels. This makes it harder for your body to get the oxygen it needs.
Risk of Lung Infection
Mucus can build up in the collapsed area, creating an environment where bacteria grow. This raises your chances of developing pneumonia until the atelectasis resolves.
Breathing Failure
In serious cases, especially when a large section or entire lung collapses, breathing may become severely compromised. This is particularly dangerous for:
- Babies
- People with existing lung disease
Prevention
Avoiding atelectasis involves addressing common risk factors. For children, keep small objects away from them as these can cause airway blockages.
For adults, the risk increases during major surgery. If you’re planning to have surgery, discuss prevention strategies with your healthcare provider beforehand.
Research suggests specific breathing exercises can help reduce the risk after surgery. Respiratory muscle training may also be beneficial for preventing lung collapse. These techniques strengthen breathing muscles and improve lung function.
Always follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding activity levels and breathing exercises, especially before and after surgical procedures.
