lung collapse- causes / action ?

[zazi717]

my dad had a lung collapse after gastrectomy surgery. Any thoughts what may be the cause and what can I do to help?

[Caspiana]

Hello zazi717 , 👋

I'm so sorry to read this about your dad. Any surgery carries risk. I am sure the surgeon must have mentioned this. It's unfortunate but these things do happen. a Pneumothorax is dreadfully uncomfortable and painful. It usually happens when air leaks into the space between the lungs and wall of the chest. Was he on a ventilator during the surgery? I am hoping by now they have managed to help him feel more comfortable? There's nothing you can do to help his collapsed lungs, but the hospital should have a course of treatment by now. Just know he will probably be in quite a bit of discomfort and breathing will be laboured until they get on top of it. Just take care of him, and love him. I hope you will update us.

Sending hugs,

Cas xx 🙋🐕

[HungryHufflepuff]

I don’t know, but wishing your dad all the best. Maybe BLF have some relevant information on their website. You can read it even if you’re not in the U.K., and you can order information leaflets (for free I think?) if you are in the U.K.

[zazi717]

Dear Caspiana and HungryHufflepuff, thank you for your kind words of support and comfort. Unfortunately I suspect the worst - lung cancer - and why the doctors have been concealing it, is a mystery. The stomach surgery was needed anyway, of course, but my dad looked forward to full recovery and return to work and active life. He is at home now and still too weak. When he gets stronger, I will be looking for competent help, although I do not think I will be able to trust medical people again.