What Is The Cause And Treatment For Atelectasis?

Posted on Wed, 29 Jan 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 29 Jan 2014 Answered on

Tue, 18 Feb 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : What causes A telectasis and treatment?

Answered by Dr. Neha Sumra (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Blockage in airway chiefly causes Atelectesis. Detailed Answer: Hi Thanks for writing in. Atelectesis is collapse of lung leading to reduced gas exchange. Atelectesis occurs due to various reasons:- - post surgical that is restricted breathing after surgery - due to blockage in bronchiole due to foriegn body in airway or some lymph node, tubercle compressing from outside - any tumour within the wall Treatment depends on underlying cause like:- -post surgical atelectesis treated by physiotherapy -ambulation & positive airway pressure technique are also used - if there in infection then go for antibiotics - ventilator is last measure to be used. Its better to rule out the cause & get it treated accordingly. Hope I answered your query Wishing you good health Regards Dr. Neha Sumra

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