What treatment is used for atelectasis?

Atelectasis treatment can include breathing or coughing exercises, inhaled medicines, breathing devices, or surgery. Atelectasis usually gets better with time or treatment. However, if it is undiagnosed or untreated, serious complications can occur, including fluid buildup, pneumonia, and respiratory failure.

Can atelectasis be treated with antibiotics?

Bronchodilators may be used to encourage sputum expectoration; if underlying airflow is present, these agents may also improve ventilation. Some patients may require broad-spectrum antibiotics to treat the underlying infections, which may occur because of bronchial obstruction.

Which type of atelectasis is the most common?

Obstructive atelectasis is the most common type and results from reabsorption of gas from the alveoli when communication between the alveoli and the trachea is obstructed. The obstruction can occur at the level of the larger or smaller bronchus.

Which medications are used in the treatment of atelectasis?

Therapy with mucolytics may promote sputum removal of thick mucous plugs and, therefore, helps treat atelectasis in many patients. Inhaled recombinant human deoxyribonuclease is a mucolytic agent successfully used in patients with Cystic fibrosis A genetic disorder, in which the lungs and the digestive system get clogged with mucus. .

How long does it take for atelectasis to heal?

About 3 months: It takes about 3 months to heal, though total healing may take 6 months or more. It is a process. Smoking, some drugs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen) can slow the process.

What to do for atelectasis?

Postural drainage where the person is tilted forward with his head below the heart levels to encourage drainage of excess fluid collected in the lungs

Can atelectasis be cured?

Treatment of atelectasis depends on the cause. Mild atelectasis may go away without treatment. Sometimes, medications are used to loosen and thin mucus. If the condition is due to a blockage, surgery or other treatments may be needed.