Respiratory Failure Symptoms

When the lungs are not able to perform their basic function of the exchange of gas, i.e, provide oxygen into the bloodstream or take out carbon dioxide from it as required, it causes hypercapnic respiratory failure. In short, the dysfunction of the respiratory system leads to respiratory failure. When the level of oxygen decreases a lot or when the level of carbon dioxide increases to a larger extent, malfunctioning of the respiration system can occur. Intake of drugs and alcohol in excess amount can lead to weak breathing. Their consumption can cause sleep apnea and depress the respiratory center thus affecting the breathing. Muscle weakness which is caused due to muscle diseases like myasthenia and muscular dystrophy are known to weaken the respiratory muscles which can lead to its failure. Lung diseases like pneumonia or the presence of fluids in the lungs can also cause the failure. Take a look at the respiratory failure signs and symptoms which will help you in its diagnosis. Read more on structure of human respiratory system.

Respiratory Failure Signs and Symptoms

There are many respiratory failure signs and symptoms and they may vary from person to person. Damage of the lung tissues, blockage of the airways, weakening of the muscles that assist in breathing can give rise to respiratory failure.

• Increase in the heart rate is one of the chronic respiratory failure symptoms.
• Impaired functioning of the heart and blood vessels also indicates the failure of respiratory system.
• Inadequate blood circulation to the parts of body may be because of respiratory failure.
• People with respiratory failure may appear sleepy and confused.
• Urinating rarely is also one of the respiratory failure symptoms.
• The skin of people suffering from respiratory failure might appear bluish in color. This bluish coloration of the skin is referred to as cyanosis.
• The victim will suffer from acidity.
• Drowsiness and malfunctioning of the brain and heart are also signs of respiratory failure.
• Lethargy and shortness of breath can be because of respiratory failure.
• Impaired mental functioning is also a symptom of respiratory failure.
• Chronic cough and wheezing are the signs of respiratory failure.
• The victim may appear to be confused and may get irritated very often.
Respiratory Failure Treatment

If you feel that you are suffering from respiratory failure, you can perform certain breathing exercises which will help in balancing the level of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood stream. Along with this, it will also help in maintaining the heart rate at normal level. These breathing exercises also help in strengthening of the muscles which can be one of the causes for respiratory failure. With a small plastic tube, the suctioning of the lungs can be done. This will help in removing the secretions from the airway. The above mentioned treatments can be opted if the failure is at a lower level. If the failure is severe then it is better to visit a doctor. The first treatment that most of the doctors give to these kind of patients is the supply oxygen to the patient by different means. Ventilation may also help in breathing. Another way which can help in the treatment of respiratory failure is by increasing the pressure in the airways. For this, the victim will have to breathe out against pursed lips. Read more on organs of the respiratory system.

Exercising regularly and maintaining diet schedule will help us in staying away from respiratory failure. The above mentioned respiratory failure symptoms will help you to know if a person is suffering from respiratory failure. Take care!