|
|
- Atelectasis is the medical term for collapse of areas of the alveoli in the lungs. In simple terms, areas of lung normally involved with the exchange of air collapse and no longer function (this is not the same as a Collapsed Lung, which is called a Pneumothorax).
- Atelectasis may occur because part
of the airway above the atelectasis becomes obstructed (for
example, from a lung tumor), or from simple disuse (often
after surgery, patients tend not to breathe as deeply, and
part of the airways collapses). It may also occur in small
areas of the lung for unknown reasons. The only symptom is
usually shortness of breath, and diagnosis can be made by
chest X-ray.
|
|
- Post-operative (after surgery) --
an incentive spirometer is a device used to "exercise" the
lungs in order to keep airways open.
- Bronchodilator therapy given as an
aerosol may help in some cases.
- Treat the underlying cause, such as a Pneumonia or tumor.
|
| | |
If you want your friend to read or know about this article, Click here
|
|
|