Guide To Diagnosing And Treating Atelectasis

Chest Physiotherapy

If there is an obstruction in the airways due to mucus or if there is a collection of fluid in the pleural region, it might be necessary for a physical therapist or a respiratory therapist to use vigorous chest physiotherapy. This treatment technique is most commonly used on patients with cystic fibrosis, though it is also very effective at helping to expand the lungs to help with sac inflation. For this treatment, the therapist will use percussion, which is basically a clapping on the ribs around the lungs to create vibrations. The vibrations help move mucus or other fluids to be expelled from the lungs, creating more room for air in the airways.

Deep Breathing Exercises

After atelectasis patients have surgery to re-expand a portion of collapsed lung tissue, it's important to use certain chest physiotherapy techniques to breathe deeply. It's also best to learn the techniques prior to surgery. Deep breathing exercises are one portion of chest physiotherapy, while other devices can help with deep coughing. Doing these exercises helps increase the patient's overall lung volume and remove secretions within the lungs. Breathing deeply moves air to the bottom of the lungs rather than just the top of the chest. It also increases the patient's oxygen intake and helps the supply of oxygen in their blood.

To engage in deep breathing exercises, patients should get in a comfortable position lying down or sitting up. They should then put their hands over their stomach, breathe in deeply through their nose, and keep breathing until their lungs feel filled with air. Then, patients must purse their lips and slowly blow out, concentrating on making their stomach muscles sink. They should repeat this for several breathing cycles.