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The pathophysiology of acute respiratory distress syndrome involves fluid accumulation in the lungs not explained by heart failure (noncardiogenic pulmonary edema). It is typically provoked by an acute injury to the lungs that results in flooding of the lungs' microscopic air sacs responsible for the exchange of gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide with capillaries in the lungs. [1]
The treatment of acute respiratory failure may involve medication such as bronchodilators (for airways disease), [7] [8] antibiotics (for infections), glucocorticoids (for numerous causes), diuretics (for pulmonary oedema), amongst others. [1] [9] [10] Respiratory failure resulting from an overdose of opioids may be treated with the antidote ...
An acute exacerbation of COPD is associated with increased frequency and severity of coughing. [5] It is often accompanied by worsened chest congestion and discomfort. Shortness of breath and wheezing are present in many cases. [5] Exacerbations may be accompanied by increased amount of cough and sputum productions, and a change in appearance ...
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a type of respiratory failure characterized by rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs. [1] Symptoms include shortness of breath (dyspnea), rapid breathing (tachypnea), and bluish skin coloration (cyanosis). [1] For those who survive, a decreased quality of life is common. [4]
Acute respiratory acidosis occurs when an abrupt failure of ventilation occurs. This failure in ventilation may be caused by depression of the central respiratory center by cerebral disease or drugs, inability to ventilate adequately due to neuromuscular disease (e.g., myasthenia gravis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Guillain–Barré syndrome, muscular dystrophy), or airway obstruction ...
Tissue hypoxia refers to low levels of oxygen in the tissues of the body and the term hypoxia is a general term for low levels of oxygen. [2] Hypoxemia is usually caused by pulmonary disease whereas tissue oxygenation requires additionally adequate circulation of blood and perfusion of tissue to meet metabolic demands.
Monitoring for complications such as pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome is of critical importance. [55] Treatment aims to prevent respiratory failure and to ensure adequate blood oxygenation. [16] [23] Supplemental oxygen can be given and it may be warmed and humidified. [41]
Clinically, the most serious and immediate complication is acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which usually occurs within 24 hours. [30] [31] [32] Those with significant lower airway involvement may develop bacterial infection. Importantly, victims suffering body surface burn and smoke inhalation are the most susceptible.