Respiratory Failure

Respiratory failure is often a medical emergency, and it could be life-threatening if it isn’t managed rapidly.

Respiratory failure

Respiratory failure occurs when the body doesn’t have enough oxygen (hypoxemic respiratory failure) or when it has elevated levels of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the blood (hypercapnic respiratory failure).

Causes and risk factors leading to respiratory failure

• Decreased blood or air flow to the lungs.
• Inability to breathe properly.
• Blockages, scarring, or fluid in the lungs.
• Blood flow abnormalities in the heart.

Factors that increase the risk of respiratory failure:

• Lung conditions, such as ARDS, COPD, pneumonia, asthma, pulmonary embolism, pulmonary edema, cystic fibrosis, and pulmonary fibrosis.
• Heart and blood flow conditions, such as congenital heart disease, heart failure, heart attack, and shock.
• Conditions in the nerves and muscles that help in breathing, such as ALS, severe scoliosis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and muscular dystrophy.
• Chest, brain, or spinal cord injuries.
• Smoking and lung irritants.
• Drug use.
• Excessive alcohol consumption.
• Sedation and anesthesia during surgeries.

Symptoms of respiratory failure

• The feeling of not getting enough air.
• Shortness of breath.
• Rapid heartbeat or heart palpitations.
• Spitting or coughing blood.
• Pale or bluish skin.
• Bluish lips and nails.
• Excessive sweating.
• Blurred vision.
• Fatigue and headache.
• Agitation and confusion.

Diagnosis of respiratory failure

• Checking the amounts of oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.
• Lung function tests.
• Imaging tests.

Treatment of respiratory failure

• Mechanical ventilation.
• A bypass machine.
• Oxygen therapy.
• Managing other issues.