Hyperinflated lungs can be caused by obstructions in the passages that deliver air to your lung tissue. Air gets trapped within the lung and causes it to overinflate. Hyperinflation can also occur when the air sacs in your lungs become less elastic, which interferes with the expulsion of air from your lungs.
One of the most common causes of hyperinflated lungs is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) — a disorder that includes emphysema. Certain lung problems, such as asthma and cystic fibrosis, also can cause hyperinflation.
In some cases, lungs may appear hyperinflated on X-rays for reasons unrelated to lung function. If you aren't experiencing shortness of breath, there's probably nothing to worry about. However, if it isn't clear what is causing the hyperinflation, your doctor may recommend additional testing.
Nov. 14, 2014
- Ferguson GT. Why does the lung hyperinflate? Proceedings of the American Thoracic Society. 2006;3:176.
- Kohlhaufl M. Dynamic hyperinflation in patients with COPD. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Sept. 23, 2014.
- Adam A, et al. Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology. 6th ed. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Sept. 26, 2014.
- What are lung function tests? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/lft/. Accessed Sept. 26, 2014.
- Rosenow EC (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Sept. 26, 2014.