Pulmonary Failure : What is it ? Why is it so dangerous ?
- krishgupta0907
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
Pulmonary Failure
Pulmonary failure (respiratory failure) happens when the lungs cannot provide sufficient oxygen to the body or cannot remove carbon dioxide properly . This can lead to serious complications if let untreated including brain damage , organ failure and even death . Due to this pulmonary failure is considered a medical emergency .
How does Pulmonary Failure develop ?
Pulmonary failure can develop due to many different illnesses or injuries such as:
Severe lung infections (like pneumonia)
Asthma or COPD flare-ups
Chest injuries
Muscle or nerve disorders
Inhalation of harmful substances
What happens to the body during Pulmonary Failure?
When lungs cannot bring in enough oxygen the body begins to suffer . In the case of excessive carbon dioxide build up , toxicity could affect brain function . Shortness of breath , confusion , extreme tiredness and fast/shallow breathing are all common symptoms of pulmonary failure . Keep in mind that even though these symptoms may seem mild at first they can quickly worsen .
Diagnosing Pulmonary Failure
Blood tests to check oxygen and carbon dioxide levels
Chest X-Rays or scans to identify lung problems
Pulse Oximetry to measure oxygen
How is Pulmonary Failure Treated ?
Oxygen Therapy - Extra oxygen is the first step . It could be given with a mask or small tubes in the nose .
Breathing support - This includes noninvasive ventilation like a mask to push air into the lungs or invasive ventilation (often used in extreme cases only) with a tube placed in the windpipe to help in breathing .
Treating the underlying cause - The most important step is treating what triggered the failure . Examples include antibiotics for pneumonia , blood thinners for lung clots and reverse medications for drug overdose .
Supportive care - Doctors also help the body as it heals . This includes monitoring heart rate and oxygen , preventing infections and ensuring proper nutrition .
How can Pulmonary Failure be prevented ?
Early treatment - Getting quick care for pneumonia or severe cough can stop the illness from becoming dangerous
Managing chronic conditions - People with asthma or other respiratory diseases should take their medicines regularly to prevent flare-ups
Avoiding smoking - Not or quitting smoking helps protect the lungs and reduces chances of lung damage
Vaccinations - Staying up to date on vaccines like the flu or COVID-19 helps prevent serious infections that cause respiratory failure .
Avoiding harmful air - Limited exposure to chemicals , smoke and dust helps keep the lungs healthy and strong .
Addressing Misconceptions
Some people think respiratory failure only affects seniors or people who smoke. However it can happen to anyone if a severe infection or injury occurs. Another misconception is that breathing problems always develop slowly but pulmonary failure can appear suddenly and worsen within hours.
Why does Pulmonary Failure still happen with today's medicine ?
Even with today’s medical care and scientific advances , infections like asthma attacks and trauma can overwhelm the lungs. In serious emergencies, the lungs may suddenly lose their ability to function requiring urgent treatment.
Sources
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