Guide To The Causes And Risk Factors Of Atelectasis

Mucus Plug

Atelectasis may be caused by a mucus plug that has formed inside an individual's lung. A healthy individual has a certain amount of mucus the lungs produce to carry out normal immune defense processes. Mucus is a blend of water, lipids, mucins, ions, and proteins. When an individual has lungs that abnormally produce an excessive amount of mucus, or that produce abnormally thick and sticky mucus, they can develop a mucus plug in the lung. The mucus plug causes a blockage in the airways that results in obstructive atelectasis. One of the most common causes for a mucus plug in the airway is attributed to patients who have recently undergone a surgical procedure. The anesthesia used during surgery causes the lungs to increase their bronchial mucus secretions. An individual who has undergone abdominal surgery will also experience shallow breathing and weakening of the muscles that control the lungs. A combination of the excess mucus production and weakened muscles can allow for a mucus plug to form large enough to obstruct the airway. Patients affected by cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, and several other conditions are at a higher risk of experiencing atelectasis caused by a mucus plug.

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