Collapsed Lungs

The oxygen that is so critical to the function of tissue, muscle, and organs enters the bloodstream after it has been inhaled into the lungs. If your lungs are unable to inflate properly, this can lead to a collapsed lung. This can happen when the lung is weakened or blocked, and the health results can be dire. Some workplaces are dangerous because of the injuries that might occur specifically regarding the lungs.

There are diseases, dangerous inhalants, and impact injuries that can all contribute to lung problems that could be life-threatening. Treatment of the lungs, including reinflation, is possible, but sometimes only through surgery. When a work injury contributes to a collapsed lung, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. For assistance, contact the Fayetteville workplace injury attorneys of Scudder & Hedrick, PLLC, by calling 910-488-1600 today.

Workplace Lung Damage

Collapsed lungs are classified as either atelectasis or pneumothrax. The difference between the two is that atelectasis occurs when the air sacs collapse, while pneumothorax happens if air in the chest cavity creates too much pressure on the lung, which then causes collapse. Each type of lung collapse has common workplace causes, including:

Atelectasis:

• chronic bronchitis
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• occupational asthma from inhaling workplace irritants or fumes

Pneumothorax:

• blunt force injury

A collapsed lung, even if it is treated successfully, results in a weaker lung that is more susceptible to subsequent collapses.

Contact Us

The lungs are a particularly sensitive part of the body. When damage occurs, you can suffer from low oxygen levels as well as lung scarring. If you need help after a work-related lung injury, contact the Fayetteville workplace injury attorneys of Scudder & Hedrick, PLLC, at 910-488-1600 today.