Symptoms of respiratory failure depend on the cause. Symptoms may include:
Respiratory failure happens when something keeps your body from getting oxygen into your blood or getting carbon dioxide out of your blood. This can be due to:
Risk factors for respiratory failure include:
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A provider diagnoses respiratory failure by testing the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood. They’ll check your blood pressure and use a small device (pulse oximeter, or pulse ox) on your finger to check your oxygen levels. They’ll listen to your heart and lungs and examine you. You may need further tests if your provider thinks you have respiratory failure.
Your provider may perform some or all of the following tests to help diagnose respiratory failure:
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How providers treat respiratory failure depends on how severe it is and what’s causing it. Treatments focus on managing the underlying cause, giving you more oxygen, or using mechanical ventilation to breathe for you until you’re able to on your own again.
Acute respiratory failure is an emergency and needs to be treated right away. Mild chronic respiratory failure can often be treated at home by managing the condition that’s causing it.
Providers may use medications or procedures to treat respiratory failure, including:
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Respiratory failure is a very serious condition. Many people survive it, depending on what’s causing it, the severity and how quickly they’re treated.
While many causes of acute respiratory failure are treatable, it can be fatal if not treated quickly. Up to 1 in 3 people who are hospitalized for acute respiratory failure don’t survive. Chronic respiratory failure is usually caused by an ongoing condition that gets worse over time.
You can’t always prevent respiratory failure. You can lower your risk of chronic respiratory failure by managing ongoing heart, lung and neurological conditions. Talk to your healthcare provider about ways to reduce your risk if you have a condition that can cause respiratory failure.
Talk to a healthcare provider if you have a chronic condition that puts you at risk for respiratory failure. They can tell you what signs and symptoms of respiratory failure to look out for and how to manage your condition.
Go to the nearest emergency room or call 911 if you have symptoms of respiratory failure. It can be fatal if not treated quickly.
It might be helpful to ask your provider:
Respiratory failure is a serious condition that can be fatal. If you think you’re experiencing acute respiratory failure, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention. If you have chronic respiratory failure or conditions that could increase your risk of developing it, talk to your provider about managing any underlying causes. They can help you understand your treatment options and what to expect in your specific situation.
Breathing issues can affect your life in many ways. Cleveland Clinic’s respiratory therapy program treats your symptoms so you can feel better day to day.
Last reviewed on 03/15/2023.
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