Type 1 Respiratory Failure Treatment in Delhi

Type 1 Respiratory Failure

Respiratory failure happens when the lungs can’t exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide effectively, and then it leads to low oxygen or high carbon dioxide in the blood.

Type 1 Respiratory Failure

It is a condition in which there is low level of oxygen in the blood with normal or low levels of carbon dioxide when breathing in the room air. It occurs due to impaired oxygen exchange at the alveolar – capillary membrane, while carbon dioxide removal remains intact.

Causes

Pneumonia
Pulmonary edema
ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome)
Pulmonary embolism
Interstitial lung disease
High-altitude exposure

Symptoms

Shortness of breath
Rapid breathing
Confusion
Cyanosis (bluish lips or fingers)
Restlessness or agitation

Diagnosis

ABG (Arterial Blood Gas): For low PaO₂
Chest X-ray / CT scan: To identify the underlying cause
Pulse oximetry: For low oxygen saturation

Treatment

Oxygen therapy
Treat underlying cause (e.g., antibiotics for pneumonia).
Mechanical ventilation if oxygen doesn’t get improved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the main problem in Type – 1 respiratory failure?

The main issue in Type – 1 respiratory failure is low oxygen levels in the blood, while carbon dioxide is normal or low.

2. Can Type 1 respiratory failure be reversed?

Yes, if diagnosed early and the underlying cause is treated, oxygen levels can be restored with proper support.

3. Is ventilator support always needed?

No, it doesn’t always stay. For mild to moderate cases may respond to oxygen therapy. But severe cases may need non – invasive or mechanical ventilation.

4. Does it lead to permanent lung damage?

No, not necessarily. Recovery depends on the cause. Conditions like ARDS or severe infections may leave some lung scarring in certain patients.