Respiratory Failure Diagnosis and Treatment
Respiratory failure is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate, expert medical attention. At RWJBarnabas Health, our critical care and pulmonology teams are equipped to provide rapid, high-quality care for both chronic and acute respiratory failure. We understand the fear and uncertainty that come with breathing difficulties, and we're here to support you and your loved ones through this challenging time.
Our state-of-the-art intensive care units and specialized respiratory services offer the latest in life-support technologies and ventilation strategies. From noninvasive ventilation to advanced mechanical ventilation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), we have the tools and expertise to support your breathing and stabilize your condition. Beyond immediate care, we focus on identifying and treating the underlying causes of respiratory failure, and on developing comprehensive rehabilitation plans to help you regain strength and pulmonary function. Trust in our experience and compassionate approach as we work tirelessly to help you breathe easier and recover.
What Is Respiratory Failure?
Respiratory failure is a serious condition that occurs when a person’s lungs can't perform their vital functions effectively. Normally, lungs are responsible for bringing oxygen into the body and removing carbon dioxide. In respiratory failure, this essential gas exchange process is compromised.
There are several types of respiratory failure, including acute hypoxic respiratory failure. This form develops rapidly and is characterized by a sudden decrease in blood oxygen levels, which can be particularly dangerous for the body's tissues and organs.
Respiratory failure can come on quickly (acute) or develop gradually and last a long time (chronic). Both types are serious because oxygen is crucial for the proper functioning of all the body's systems. If you experience persistent difficulty breathing, it's important to seek medical attention promptly.
Respiratory Failure Causes
Respiratory failure can be caused by various conditions, including:
- Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). A severe condition in which fluid builds up in the tiny, elastic air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. This fluid keeps lungs from filling with enough air, meaning less oxygen reaches the bloodstream. It is often a response to infection or inflammation.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A chronic lung disease that block airflow and make breathing difficult.
- Neuromuscular disorders. Conditions affecting the nerves that control respiratory muscles can interfere with the body's ability to breathe effectively.
- Pneumonia. An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus causing difficulty breathing and limiting oxygen intake.
- Pulmonary embolism. A blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, often caused by blood clots that travel to the lungs from other parts of your body.
- Severe asthma attacks. During a severe asthma attack, airways can become so inflamed and constricted that they fail to deliver enough oxygen to vital organs.
Respiratory Failure Symptoms
Respiratory failure can affect people in different ways. A person could experience various symptoms depending on what is causing breathing difficulties. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
- Severe shortness of breath
- Rapid breathing
- Blue-tinged skin, lips, or fingernails
- Confusion or altered mental status
- Extreme fatigue
- Rapid heart rate
Respiratory Failure Diagnosis
Our specialists at RWJBarnabas Health diagnose respiratory failure through a comprehensive medical history and physical examination and tests and procedures that include:
- Arterial blood gas test
- Pulse oximetry
- Chest x-rays
- Computed Tomography (CT) scans
- Pulmonary function tests
- Echocardiogram (to assess heart function)
Additional tests to identify underlying causes may also be given.
Respiratory Failure Treatments
Treatment for respiratory failure depends on the type, cause and severity of the condition, and may include:
- Oxygen therapy. Supplemental oxygen is administered to increase blood oxygen levels and support breathing in patients with respiratory distress.
- Mechanical ventilation. This can be invasive (via intubation) or noninvasive (like BiPAP), providing breathing support when a patient's own respiratory efforts are insufficient.
- Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). In severe cases, this advanced life support technique uses a machine to oxygenate blood outside the body, allowing the lungs to rest and recover.
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Medications. Various drugs may be used to treat underlying conditions or manage symptoms:
- Bronchodilators to open airways
- Diuretics to remove excess fluid from the lungs
- Antibiotics to treat infections like pneumonia
- Pulmonary therapy and rehabilitation. A comprehensive program combining exercise, education, and breathing techniques to improve lung function and overall health.
- Treatment of underlying causes. Addressing the root cause of respiratory failure, such as managing heart failure, kidney failure or treating severe infections, is crucial for recovery.
Respiratory Failure Prevention and Management
While not all cases of respiratory failure can be prevented, risk can be reduced using the following strategies:
- Manage underlying lung conditions effectively
- Quit smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke
- Get vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcal disease
- Avoid exposure to air pollution and occupational hazards
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Expert Care for Respiratory Failure
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of respiratory failure or have concerns about severe breathing difficulties, immediate expert care is crucial. Act right away to receive prompt attention from our critical care and pulmonology specialists.
At RWJBarnabas Health, we're dedicated to providing lifesaving care and support for patients facing respiratory failure. Let our experienced multidisciplinary team guide you through comprehensive, state-of-the-art treatment to stabilize your condition and improve your respiratory function. We're here to help you breathe easier and support your journey to recovery.