1. Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
Why it happens: In lung failure, the lungs cannot exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide efficiently. As a result, oxygen levels in the blood drop, and the body feels “air hungry.” This is usually one of the earliest and most distressing symptoms.
How it feels: Patients may notice breathlessness when climbing stairs, walking short distances, or even at rest. Some describe it as “not being able to take a full breath,” while others compare it to “breathing through a straw.”
Medical Tests:
- Pulse Oximetry: Checks oxygen saturation (SpO₂). Levels below 90% are concerning.
- Arterial Blood Gas (ABG): Measures oxygen (PaO₂) and carbon dioxide (PaCO₂) in blood.
- Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): Check lung capacity and airflow.