Is it possible to recover from a collapsed lung?

A week ago, my father was hospitalized due to a persistent cough and shortness of breath. The doctor diagnosed him with a collapsed lung. Is this condition reversible, and what are the treatment options? I would appreciate your advice, doctor!

(Mr. Tran Hoa, residing in Vinh Cuu district)

The doctor replied:

Hello!

Aortic collapse is a condition in which part or all of the lung loses ventilation, resulting in that area of ​​the lung no longer participating in gas exchange. This is not a disease in itself, but rather a consequence of many causes, the most common being airway obstruction (due to thick mucus, foreign bodies, or tumors), external compression (pneumothorax, pleural effusion), or post-surgery, especially in elderly or bedridden patients.

According to the Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Adult Respiratory Diseases ( Ministry of Health , 2022) and the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), complete lung collapse is reversible, especially if the underlying cause is detected and treated early.

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Treatment depends on the specific cause. Measures include: respiratory physiotherapy (deep breathing, chest percussion), suctioning, nebulization to thin mucus, pleural drainage if there is pneumothorax or pleural effusion, and antibiotics if there is a secondary infection. Bronchoscopy is indicated if obstruction due to a foreign body or tumor is suspected.

In many cases, particularly lung collapse after surgery or due to mucus buildup, the lung can recover almost completely within a few days to a few weeks with proper care and adherence to treatment.

Regular chest X-rays or CT scans will help assess the recovery process. The family needs to work closely with the respiratory specialist to achieve the best possible treatment outcome.

Wishing your family good health!

MSc - Doctor Pham Thi Tam,

Internal Medicine Specialist, Ai Nghia Medical System

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Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/alo--bac-si-oi/202506/bi-xep-phoi-co-hoi-phuc-duoc-khong-62f158a/