Respiratory Failure

Overview

• Respiratory failure occurs when:
  • Insufficient oxygen passes from the lungs to the blood.
  • Lungs fail to remove carbon dioxide (CO2), a waste gas, from the blood.
• Oxygen-rich blood is essential for organs such as the heart and brain.
• Excessive CO2 can be harmful to the body's organs.

Causes

1. Lung Diseases:

   • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
   • Pneumonia
   • Pulmonary Embolism
   • Cystic Fibrosis

2. Nerve and Muscle Conditions:

   • Spinal cord injuries
   • Muscular dystrophy
   • Stroke

3. Physical Damage:

   • Damage to tissues and ribs around the lungs
   • Chest injuries

4. Substance Overdose:

   • Drug or alcohol overdose

5. Environmental Injuries:

   • Inhaling smoke or harmful fumes

Treatment

• Depends on:
  • Acute (short-term) vs. Chronic (ongoing) condition
  • Severity of the condition
  • Underlying cause
• May include:
  • Oxygen therapy
  • Other supportive treatments to assist with breathing

Key Points

• Respiratory failure is a critical condition requiring immediate attention.
• Understanding the cause helps in determining the appropriate treatment.
• Medical intervention can include supportive therapies and addressing underlying causes.