| Alternative Names:
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| Chronic respiratory acidosis; Ventilatory failure; Respiratory failure; Acidosis - respiratory
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| Treatment:
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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
- Non-invasive positive-pressure ventilation or mechanical ventilation may be necessary if the respiratory acidosis is severe
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| Expectations (prognosis):
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| The prognosis depends on the underlying disease. |
| Complications:
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- 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.
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| Calling your health care provider:
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- 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 -- this is a MEDICAL EMERGENCY.
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