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Atelectasis is a disorder also known as collapsed lung. When this disorder occurs, the lungs cannot function properly due to the fact that they cannot be fully filled with air. The part of the lungs absorbed by the disease is completely separated and excluded from gas exchange.
Depending on the case, atelectasis may involve the whole or a specific part of the lungs. The entire disorder is based on the phenomenon of sticking together of the alveolar walls, which is caused by a deficiency and lack of access to air. In most cases of this disorder, the disease is caused by abnormal airflow through the bronchi, which may be caused by mucus, a foreign body, or a tumor on the bronchial walls.
Niedodma – what it is
In some cases, abnormal airflow in the bronchi can be caused by enlargement of the lymph nodes or by tumors. In addition, pulmonary embolism, which is responsible for the secretion of surfactant, can also lead to atelectasis. A factor whose task is to protect against collapse of the alveoli. Niedodma is categorized. There may be a case of primary atelectasis caused by this pulmonary embolism. Newborns are most often the victims of this variety. To sum up, atelectasis is divided into two basic types: obstructive and non-obstructive.
Atelectasis – causes
Among the causes of non-obstructive atelectasis, we can first of all distinguish mucus that blocks the airways. This problem can occur in people suffering from cystic fibrosis, in newborns, and in people taking medications that weaken the function of the respiratory muscles. Another cause may be the appearance of a foreign body that disrupts the bronchial function. The foreign body enters the bronchi, usually through choking, e.g. with food. Chest trauma can also lead to obstructive nephropathy, which causes blood to flow into the lungs that obstructs the airways.
The most common causes of non-obstructive atelectasis are respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia or the appearance of a tumor. They create scars that reduce the aeration of the lungs. Another cause may be the appearance of fluid in the pleural cavity, which puts pressure on the lungs.
Atelectasis – symptoms
The symptoms of atelectasis include: cough, sharp chest pain, scarring, lowering body temperature, shortness of breath, damage to lung tissue. In atelectasis involving only part of the lungs, it is possible that no symptoms may occur and the disease may disappear on its own without treatment. This is not the case with atelectasis that covers the entire lung. In this case, the symptoms are extremely bothersome and intense and can lead to lung failure.
Atelectasis is relatively easy to diagnose. A standard auscultation test is sufficient for diagnosis. Atelectasis can also be diagnosed without testing. As the patient breathes, the chest fills asymmetrically. Final diagnosis is made with the help of a chest X-ray.
Treatment depends on the cause of the disease. In some cases, the solution to the problem may be an antibiotic, and in others surgery, it all depends on the severity of the disease and the symptoms it causes.