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Respiratory system
Respiratory system
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Respiratory acidosis

Alternative Names:
Chronic respiratory acidosis; Ventilatory failure; Respiratory failure; Acidosis - respiratory

Treatment:

Treatment is aimed at the underlying lung disease.

  • Smoking cessation is extremely important
  • Bronchodilator drugs may reverse some airway obstruction
  • Oxygen may be necessary if the blood oxygen level is low
  • Mechanical ventilation may be necessary if the respiratory acidosis is severe


Expectations (prognosis):
The prognosis depends on the underlying disease.

Complications:
  • Respiratory acidosis may be a sign of respiratory failure, with dangerously low blood oxygen levels.
  • Excessive respiratory acidosis may lead to confusion, lethargy, or poor organ function. In extreme cases, low blood pressure and shock may result.


Calling your health care provider:
  • Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of lung disease.
  • Call 911 or get to an emergency room if you suspect you have severe respiratory acidosis, as this is a medical emergency.


Review Date: 1/25/2002
Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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