Respiratory Failure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

We frequently take breathing for granted until it becomes challenging. Our lungs are essential for maintaining life because they take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide. A dangerous medical condition known as respiratory failure impairs the lungs’ normal function and frequently necessitates prompt medical intervention. When the lungs are unable to eliminate carbon dioxide from the blood and deliver oxygen to the blood, respiratory failure happens. The brain and heart are two vital organs that may be negatively impacted by this imbalance in oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.

Acute respiratory failure occurs suddenly, whereas chronic respiratory failure develops gradually. In many cases, it is a medical emergency that has to be treated right away because postponing care could have fatal consequences. Dr. Sheetu Singh is a highly skilled pulmonologist with extensive experience in managing respiratory conditions, particularly respiratory failure. She offers professional advice on the diagnosis, management, and treatment of respiratory failure – which happens when the lungs are unable to sufficiently remove carbon dioxide from the body or deliver oxygen to it—because she has a thorough awareness of the complications underlying lung disorders.

Dr. Sheetu Singh aims to stabilize patients using a mix of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies and individualized treatment programs, frequently utilizing oxygen therapy, ventilatory support, and pharmaceutical therapies.

Cough Specialist, Chest Specialist, Sleep Apnea Specialist, Asthma Specialist, Lung Specialist

What are the Symptoms of Respiratory Failure?

Respiratory failure symptoms may emerge gradually or all at once. Here are some of the common symptoms of respiratory failure:

• Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Breathing difficulties or dyspnea, even when at rest.
• Rapid Breathing (Tachypnea): Abnormally fast breathing as the body tries to compensate, or an inability to concentrate.
• Confusion or Disorientation: Confusion, tiredness, or difficulty concentrating might result from a low oxygen supply to the brain.
• Bluish Skin, Lips, or Fingernails (Cyanosis): A lack of oxygen in the blood can cause the skin or nails to turn blue.
• Chest Pain: Severe or ongoing chest pain could be a sign of lung dysfunction.
• Fatigue or Weakness: A lack of oxygen in the body can lead to extreme tiredness and muscle weakness.
• Increased Heart Rate: When oxygen levels fall, the heart beats more quickly to move oxygen around more effectively.

What are the Causes of Respiratory Failure?

Numerous illnesses that impair the lungs’ capacity to expel carbon dioxide or deliver oxygen can cause respiratory failure. Here are some of the primary causes of respiratory failure:

• Lung Infection (Pneumonia, COVID-19, Tuberculosis): An accumulation of fluid in the lungs due to an infection might hinder the flow of oxygen into the blood.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are two conditions that harm the lungs over time and interfere with regular breathing.
• Severe Asthma Attack: Respiratory failure can result from an abrupt and severe asthma attack that blocks airways, lowering oxygen intake.
• Pulmonary Embolism: Respiratory failure may result from a blood clot in the lungs that restricts oxygen exchange and blocks airflow.
• Inhalation of Toxins or Smoke: Exposure to toxic gases, chemicals, or smoke from flames can irritate or damage the lungs.
• Chest Trauma: Injuries to the chest or lungs can interfere with normal breathing mechanics.
• Neuromuscular Disorders (ALS,  Muscular Dystrophy): Respiratory failure can be caused by conditions that weaken the breathing muscles.
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Frequent breathing pauses while you sleep might lower your oxygen intake and eventually cause respiratory issues.
• Drug Overdose or Sedative: Respiratory failure can result from certain treatments or pharmaceuticals that inhibit the brain’s ability to regulate breathing.

What are the Risk Factors of Respiratory Failure?

The risk of respiratory failure is increased by specific factors. Even though some of these risk factors cannot be avoided, being aware of them can aid in prevention and early detection. Here are the most common risk factors:

• Chronic Lung Diseases (COPD, Asthma, Pulmonary, or Fibrosis): Individuals who already have lung diseases are more likely to get respiratory failure.
• Weakened Immune System: Lung infections that might lead to respiratory failure are more common in people whose immunity has been weakened by HIV, cancer therapies, or other immune-suppressive diseases.
• Age (Older Adults and Infants): Due to their reduced lung capacity, older adults and newborns are more susceptible to respiratory infections and respiratory issues.
• Exposure to Air Pollution and Smoke: Over time, lung tissues can be harmed by breathing in hazardous substances, secondhand smoke, or contaminated air.
• Obesity: Excess body weight can put pressure on the lungs and diaphragm, making it harder to breathe.
• Neurological Disorders (ALS, Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis): Respiratory failure is more likely to occur when breathing muscles are compromised by disorders affecting the brain or neurological system.
• Recent Surgery or Anesthesia: Surgery, especially involving the chest or abdomen, may impact breathing and lung function temporarily.
• Use of Sedatives and Narcotics: Respiratory failure is more likely to occur when breathing muscles are compromised by disorders affecting the brain or neurological system.
• Occupational Hazards (Exposure to Toxins or Dust): Long-term lung injury is more likely in occupations that expose workers to chemicals, dust, or other tiny particles.

FAQs

What is Respiratory Failure?

When the lungs are unable to expel enough carbon dioxide or provide enough oxygen to the body, respiratory failure results. Breathing difficulties, low oxygen levels, and elevated blood carbon dioxide levels might result from it.

What are the causes of Respiratory Failure?

Chronic lung diseases (such as COPD), pneumonia, asthma, heart failure, trauma, and disorders affecting the respiratory muscles or neurological system are common causes.

What are the symptoms of Respiratory Failure?

Symptoms include shortness of breath, rapid breathing, confusion, fatigue, bluish skin (cyanosis), and difficulty concentrating.

How is Respiratory Failure diagnosed?

A physical examination, blood tests (ABG), chest X-rays, and pulmonary function tests to measure oxygen and carbon dioxide levels are usually used to make the diagnosis.

How is Respiratory Failure treated?

The underlying cause and severity determine the course of treatment. It could involve lifestyle modifications, oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, and drugs to address the underlying cause, such as bronchodilators or antibiotics.