What are early signs and symptoms of atelectasis?

Atelectasis refers to the collapse or closure of a lung resulting in reduced or absent gas exchange. Early signs and symptoms are crucial for timely identification and management of this condition. The correct choice highlights cough, sputum production, and a low-grade fever as the indicative symptoms.

Coughing often occurs as the body’s response to clear secretions or irritants that may lead to airway obstruction. Sputum production signifies inflammation or infection in the airways, which can accompany atelectasis. A low-grade fever may develop due to the underlying inflammation or infection that sometimes contributes to the lung’s collapse. Together, these symptoms suggest that the patient's respiratory pathways are compromised and prompt further investigation or intervention to prevent the worsening of the condition.

Other options, while they present symptoms typically encountered in various medical situations, do not specifically relate to the early signs and symptoms of atelectasis and are therefore not relevant in this context.