Symptoms of Atelectasis

A collapsed lung may or may not cause symptoms. Small areas of collapse are less likely than larger areas to cause symptoms. Major atelectasis decreases the amount of oxygen available throughout the body.

Symptoms that may occur if a large area has collapsed include:

• Rapid breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Taking shallow breaths
• Coughing
• Decreased chest movement during breathing
• Wheezing
• Fever
• Rapid heart rate
• Chest pain
• Blueness of the lips or nails