What is one common cause of decreased lung compliance?

Decreased lung compliance is a condition where the lungs become stiffer and harder to expand, leading to difficulties in both inhalation and exhalation. Atelectasis, which refers to the partial or complete collapse of the lung or a portion of the lung, is a common cause of this decreased compliance. When the alveoli (the tiny air sacs in the lungs) collapse, they are unable to participate in gas exchange efficiently, which subsequently leads to reduced lung volume and compliance.

In cases of atelectasis, the affected lung tissues lose their elasticity and surface tension, making it harder for the lungs to expand during breathing. This reduced ability to stretch results in a stiffer lung and requires greater effort during ventilation. Recognizing and addressing atelectasis is crucial in mechanical ventilation settings because its impact on lung compliance can significantly alter the management of a patient's respiratory needs.

Other options, such as infection, dehydration, and asthma, may also affect lung function but tend to contribute to differing mechanisms or may not directly lead to decreased compliance in the same manner. For example, infections can cause inflammation and secretions, while dehydration may lead to thicker mucus, and asthma is often associated with airway obstruction rather than altered lung compliance directly.