Respiratory failure occurs when the lungs fail to supply sufficient oxygen to the blood or cannot remove enough carbon dioxide (CO₂). This leads to oxygen deficiency or CO₂ retention in the body, severely impacting vital organs such as the brain, heart, and kidneys. Without timely treatment, respiratory failure can progress rapidly.

According to Master, Doctor Nguyen Van Ngan from the Respiratory Department, Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, individuals regularly exposed to fine dust from cement, steel, machine smoke, or chemicals such as solvents, dyes, and asbestos face a high risk of lung damage. These agents accumulate over time, causing chronic respiratory inflammation, pulmonary fibrosis, and reduced respiratory function, thereby increasing the risk of respiratory failure.

Doctor Ngan examines a patient. *Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital.*

Initial signs include shortness of breath during exertion, quickly becoming tired when climbing stairs, and rapid breathing when carrying heavy loads. Patients may experience body weakness, drowsiness, and pale lips and fingertips. When CO₂ accumulates, patients might also suffer from headaches, blurred vision, confusion, and a rapid heartbeat. In cases of oxygen deficiency combined with excess CO₂, the condition can be critical, requiring immediate emergency care.

To diagnose respiratory failure, doctors observe skin and lip color, respiratory rate, heart rate, and measure blood oxygen levels to assess gas exchange capability. If the disease is suspected, doctors may order arterial blood gas tests, chest X-rays or CT scans, bronchoscopy, or electrocardiograms. These techniques help determine the extent of lung damage, identify the cause of respiratory failure, and guide appropriate treatment.

Respiratory failure is a serious condition that can incapacitate patients. Doctor Ngan advises individuals working in environments with significant dust and chemicals to wear protective masks, especially when cutting, drilling, mixing materials, or using solvents. Limiting close contact with people suffering from respiratory illnesses and undergoing regular health check-ups helps detect potential lung damage early. If symptoms such as rapid breathing or prolonged fatigue occur, seek medical attention promptly.

Everyone should consume plenty of green vegetables and fruits rich in antioxidants, limit alcohol, and avoid smoking. A number of foods such as: grapefruit, tomatoes, fatty fish, olive oil, and blueberries are beneficial for lung health. Regular physical activity and practicing diaphragmatic breathing or deep breathing exercises can increase lung capacity and reduce stress.

Thu Giang