Respiratory failure occurs once the respiratory system could not get rid of carbon dioxide from the blood. It can also develop if the respiratory system could not acquire enough oxygen. When it comes to chronic respiratory failure, it is an ongoing ailment that steadily develops over time and necessitates long-term management.
This generally occurs if the tubes transporting air to the lungs are constricted or damaged. This disrupts with the movement of air throughout the body.
What are the signs?
The indications of chronic respiratory failure might not be evident initially. Most arise slowly over a span of time. Once the signs develop, it might include:
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath especially during exertion
- Fatigue
- Coughing up mucous
- Bluish tinge to the lips, skin or fingernails
- Rapid breathing
- Confusion
- Anxiety
Remember that chronic respiratory failure is a serious ailment that worsens over time. As it progresses, the individual might end up with an erratic heart rhythm or slip into a state of coma.
What are the usual causes?
Some lung ailments can result to chronic respiratory failure. The conditions that affect how the bones, muscles or tissues that support the breathing can also lead to respiratory failure.
The usual ailments that can result to chronic respiratory failure generally include:
- Pneumonia
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Smoking
- Stroke
- Spinal cord injuries
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Muscle dystrophy
- Chest injuries
Management of chronic respiratory failure
Even though acute respiratory failure is considered as a medical emergency that is treated in a healthcare facility, the chronic form can be managed at home.
In severe cases, the doctor can help manage the condition in a long-term healthcare facility. The treatment options generally include managing the underlying cause of respiratory failure, eliminating excess carbon dioxide from the blood and increasing the level of oxygen in the blood.
Oxygen therapy
Oxygen therapy is given if the individual does not have adequate oxygen in the blood. This helps raise the level of oxygen by increasing the amount of oxygen inhaled. The oxygen is administered from a tank via a tube and enters the lungs via nasal tubes, face mask or a bigger tube that is directly introduced into the windpipe.
Tracheotomy
In serious cases of chronic respiratory failure, a tracheostomy might be necessary. During the procedure, a tube is introduced into the windpipe to allow easy breathing. The tube is inserted via an incision in the anterior part of the neck where the windpipe is positioned.
Mechanical ventilation
In case the condition does not improve with other treatment options, the doctor might put the individual on a ventilator. The device drives oxygen via a tube that is placed into the mouth or nose and down into the windpipe.