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Chronic respiratory failure
Chronic respiratory failure
by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023
General
Chronic respiratory failure refers to an ongoing condition in which the lungs deliver oxygen to the tissues. It is usually caused due to narrowing and damage to the airways, resulting in decrease in gas exchange. These conditions include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, complicated pneumonia, cystic fibrosis, spinal cord injuries, stroke, muscular dystrophy, ALS, chest injury, drugs, alcohol and smoking. Low blood oxygen levels cause hypoxemic respiratory failure. High carbon dioxide levels cause hypercapnic respiratory failure.
7 people with Chronic respiratory failure
Learn from others who are experiencing Chronic respiratory failure.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing mucus, wheezing, cyanosis of the fingernails, lips or skin, rapid breathing, fatigue, anxiety, confusion, and headache.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based upon findings from medical history and physical examination. Further evaluation may include pulse oximetry, blood tests for gas test, imaging tests, and bronchoscopy.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include oxygen therapy, tracheostomy, and mechanical ventilation.
Note
☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike
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