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Respiratory failure - inability of the lungs to perform their basic task of gas exchange, the transfer of oxygen from inhaled air into the blood and the transfer of carbon dioxide from the blood into exhaled air. The basis of respiratory failure may be failure of the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide within the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs; failure of the muscles required to expand the lungs; or failure of the brain centers controlling respiration.
A host of medical conditions can lead to respiratory failure, including:
• A long history of asthma
• A long history of emphysema
• A long history of chronic obstructive lung disease
• Major surgery on the abdomen, heart, or lungs
• An overdose of sleeping pills or certain depressant drugs
• A premature baby who weighs less than 3 pounds
• A baby with bronchopulmonary dysplasia
• Multiple physical injuries, as in an auto accident
• Extensive burns
• Profuse bleeding, as from a gunshot wound
• Near drowning
• Advanced heart failure
• Severe infection, such as AIDS
• Extremely obesity
Drugs used to prevent Respiratory failure: |
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