Respiratory Failure
Respiratory failure occurs when the lungs can no longer adequately exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, leading to insufficient oxygen in the blood (hypoxemia) or excessive carbon dioxide (hypercapnia). This critical condition impairs the body's ability to maintain proper gas exchange, potentially affecting vital organ function. It can be acute, developing rapidly, or chronic, developing over time.
Common Symptoms
- Severe shortness of breath (dyspnea)
- Rapid, shallow breathing (tachypnea)
- Bluish discoloration of the skin, lips, or nail beds (cyanosis)
- Confusion, drowsiness, or altered mental status
Clinical Sources
- Respiratory Failure: Causes, Symptoms & TreatmentCleveland Clinic
- ARDS - Symptoms and causes - Mayo ClinicMayo Clinic
Diagnostic Lab Tests
Tests commonly used to diagnose or monitor Respiratory Failure:
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