Is Atelectasis Life-Treatening?
In an adult, small regions of atelectasis are usually not life-threatening, because unaffected parts of the lung compensate for the loss of function in the affected area. Large-scale atelectasis, especially in someone who has another lung disease or illness may be life-threatening. In a baby or infant, lung collapse due to a mucus obstruction or other causes can be life-threatening. Massive atelectasis may result in the collapse of a lung. Keep small objects out of the reach of young children. Maintain deep breathing after anesthesia and in those bedridden for long periods. Encourage people who are sick or who have just had an operation not to lie in bed continuously.
