Partly collapsed lung (atelectasis)

Overview

Atelectasis is common after surgery because pain makes breathing shallow.

A tumor or mucus plug can also block an airway and cause it.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Shortness of breath

Less common

• Cough
• Low oxygen levels
• Mild fever

Look up a symptom: Cough · Getting winded easily with activity or stairs

When to get medical care

Causes

Shallow breathing.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• After surgery

Possible complications

• Pneumonia

Diagnosis

A chest X-ray finds it.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Chest X-ray:

Treatment

Breathe deep.

Self-care

• Use an incentive spirometer
• Walk
• Cough
• Change positions often if you're in bed

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Deep breathing after surgery
• Quit smoking before surgery
• Walk soon after surgery

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a pulmonologist (lung doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• American Lung Association: Lung HelpLine 1-800-586-4872 and Better Breathers support groups.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• After surgery: Very common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Reopens.

Usually reopens in days.

Reopens in days for most people.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Do I need a repeat X-ray?
• How often should I use the breathing device?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Partly collapsed lung (atelectasis)