When is it Necessary to Seek Medical Help?
If an individual is facing breathing issues coupled with rapid breathing, intense chest pain, dizziness, cyanosis (a bluish tint to the skin due to low oxygen levels), or a rapid heart rate, it is important to immediately dial 911 for emergency medical assistance. Based on the seriousness of the condition, the patient may need to be placed on a ventilator until their lungs regain proper function.
Diagnosing Atelectasis
When it comes to diagnosing atelectasis, healthcare professionals typically commence with a thorough physical examination, which involves listening to the patient’s respiratory sounds. Following this, a chest x-ray is often conducted to further investigate the condition. In certain cases, additional tests like CT scans, ultrasounds, or bronchoscopies may be performed by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis. Bronchoscopy, for instance, entails the insertion of a thin, flexible tube through the mouth or nose and into the lungs. Another useful test called oximetry is employed to assess the severity of the disease.