Atelectasis
Atelectasis is a condition in which a part or large portion of the lung collapses, specifically the small air sacs called alveoli.
Alveoli are the site of gas exchange in the body. This is where oxygen enters the blood and carbon dioxide exits. When alveoli lose air, they cannot inflate properly. This means that blood, tissues, and organs may not receive enough oxygen.
This condition can occur in a small area or the entire lung. If a significant portion of the lung collapses, it can lead to respiratory symptoms and potential complications.
Types and Causes of Atelectasis
There are two primary categories of atelectasis:
· Obstructive atelectasis occurs when a blockage forms in one of your airways. This inhibits air from reaching your alveoli, which causes them to collapse. Possible causes include:
o mucus plugs in an airways
o tumors growing in the airway or lung tissue
o foreign objects that have been accidentally inhaled
General anesthesia, which is commonly used during surgeries, can lead to this condition by changing normal breathing patterns and lung gas exchange.
· Non-obstructive atelectasis is any type of atelectasis that does not result from an obstruction in your airways. Common causes include:
o Surgery, particularly those involving the chest or abdomen, might result in this kind of atelectasis.
o Lunch scarring
o Pleural effusion
o Surfactant deficiency
o Pneumothorax
Symptoms of Atelectasis
Atelectasis often causes no symptoms on its own, but if the collapse affects large areas of the lungs, it can lead to hypoxemia (low oxygen levels in the blood). Symptoms of hypoxemia may include:
· Chest pain
· Shortness of breath
· Bluish skin, lips, or fingernails (cyanosis)
· Rapid breathing
· Difficulty breathing
· Coughing
· Confusion or disorientation
· Dizziness or lightheadedness
· Headache
Atelectasis Risk Factors
Factors that increase your risk of developing this condition include:
· Smoking
· Surgery
· Medications that cause weak breathing
· Lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis, asthma and bronchiectasis
· General anesthesia
· Immobility or prolonged bed rest
Complications of Atelectasis
Complications may include:
· Pneumonia: This condition raises the chance of developing pneumonia due to decreased lung function and impaired respiratory secretion clearance.
· Respiratory Failure: Severe cases can cause respiratory failure, which is defined by insufficient blood oxygenation and the accumulation of carbon dioxide.
· Hypoxemia: Reduced oxygen levels in the blood can cause tissue damage and organ failure if not managed.
Diagnosis of Atelectasis
Chest X-rays are the primary tool for diagnosing this condition. In some cases, healthcare providers may use computed tomography (CT) scans to get more detailed images.
A bronchoscopy may be used to examine the airways and remove any blockages.
Treatment and Preventive Measures of Atelectasis
Many cases of atelectasis resolve without treatment, under close monitoring by healthcare providers. Treatment depends on the cause and extent of the collapse and may include:
· Deep breathing workouts
· Physical therapy can help with lung expansion.
· Removing lung obstruction.
· Tumor and chronic lung disease treatment.
· Bronchodilators dilate the airways.
Preventive measures can reduce the risk of this condition such as:
· Maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding food and drink that can cause mucus build-up before general anesthesia.
· Regular exercise and deep breathing.
· Prepare for general anesthesia by eating a balanced diet and avoiding mucus-causing foods and drinks.
· Pre-operative coughing and deep breathing exercises.
· Quit smoking or avoid secondhand smoke.
· Post-operative chest physical therapy.
· Used inhaled medicines to clean mucus and airway passages.
· Maintaining a firm and upright posture following surgery to prevent lung collapse.