Hypoxic Respiratory Failure
Hypoxic respiratory failure occurs when the body is deprived of adequate oxygen to function. This type of failure is usually caused by a decrease in the amount of oxygen in the air, such as when climbing to high altitudes or when a person has respiratory illnesses that limit the amount of oxygen that can be inhaled. Hypoxia, or low oxygen levels, can also be caused by a decrease in the efficiency of the lungs or heart, such as in cases of pulmonary hypertension or pulmonary fibrosis.
Hypercapnic Respiratory Failure
Hypercapnic respiratory failure, also known as hypercapnia, occurs when the body is unable to expel enough carbon dioxide from the lungs. This can be caused by a variety of conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, sleep apnea, and neuromuscular disorders. Hypercapnia can also be caused by a decrease in the efficiency of the lungs, such as in cases of pulmonary hypertension or pulmonary fibrosis. In some cases, hypercapnia can be caused by an increase in the amount of carbon dioxide in the air, such as in cases where a person is exposed to high levels of air pollution.
