Search results
Results From The WOW.Com Content Network
Emphysema is a lower respiratory tract disease, [7] characterised by enlarged air-filled spaces in the lungs, that can vary in size and may be very large. The spaces are caused by the breakdown of the walls of the alveoli , which replace the spongy lung tissue .
Respiratory failure results from inadequate gas exchange by the respiratory system, meaning that the arterial oxygen, carbon dioxide, or both cannot be kept at normal levels. A drop in the oxygen carried in the blood is known as hypoxemia; a rise in arterial carbon dioxide levels is called hypercapnia. Respiratory failure is classified as ...
A decreased respiratory drive can also be the result of metabolic alkalosis, a state of decreased carbon dioxide in the blood; Central sleep apnea. During sleep, the breathing centers of the brain can pause their activity, leading to prolonged periods of apnea with potentially serious consequences. Hyperventilation followed by prolonged breath ...
With emphysema the shortness of breath due to effective bronchoconstriction from excessive very thick mucus blockage (it is so thick that great difficulty is encountered in expelling it resulting in near exhaustion at times) can bring on panic attacks unless the individual expects this and has effectively learned pursed lip breathing to more quickly transfer oxygen to the blood via the damaged ...
The consequence of oxygen deprivation in tissues is a switch to anaerobic metabolism at the cellular level. As such, reduced systemic blood flow may result in increased serum lactate. [80] Serum lactate levels have been correlated with illness severity and mortality in critically ill adults and in ventilated neonates with respiratory distress. [80]
Assessing and monitoring blood gas levels is the most accurate means to identify a state of respiratory compromise in patients. ABG testing does however require an arterial blood sample, which is more invasive and uncomfortable for patients than a pulse oximetry reading that uses a reading based on light and color.
A North Carolina father is facing criminal charges after authorities allege he left his child isolated in a room with a space heater for more than 12 hours, leading to his death.
Decrease of total lung area, e.g. Restrictive lung disease or lung resection (partial or total). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (Emphysema) due to decreased surface area in the alveoli, as well as damage to the capillary bed [7] Pulmonary embolism; Cardiac insufficiency [8] Pulmonary hypertension; Bleomycin (upon administration of more ...