Aerobic metabolism is facilitated by the respiratory system, which permits gas exchange between the environment and the body. The respiratory system specifically delivers oxygen and expels carbon dioxide from the body. Respiratory failure occurs when the respiratory system is unable to carry out one or both of these functions. Type 1 respiratory failure, which causes hypoxemia, happens when the respiratory system is unable to adequately oxygenate the body. Type 2 respiratory failure, which causes hypercapnia, happens when the respiratory system is unable to properly eliminate carbon dioxide from the body. Chronicity is a factor that can classify respiratory failure (i.e., acute, chronic, and acute on chronic). The management of respiratory failure requires a thorough understanding of the condition. Both types of respiratory failure can become life-threatening and result in respiratory arrest, coma, and death if they are not recognised and treated right away.

Because respiratory failure (RF) is a syndrome brought on by numerous clinical conditions, it is challenging to determine the epidemiology of this illness process.

Laboratory assays (such as a complete blood count with differential, a comprehensive metabolic panel with magnesium/phosphorous, procalcitonin, troponin, and thyroid-stimulating hormone), an infectious workup (such as blood and sputum cultures, respiratory pathogen panel tests, and urinary antigen tests), and 12-lead electrocardiography may all be appropriate diagnostic studies.

Both pulmonary and extra pulmonary problems are linked to respiratory failure, particularly in the acute situation. Extra pulmonary complications include acid-base imbalances, decreased cardiac output, gastrointestinal haemorrhage, hepatic failure, ileus, infection, increased intracranial pressure, malnutrition, pneumoperitoneum, renal failure, and thrombocytopenia. Bronchopleural fistula, nosocomial pneumonia, pneumothorax, pulmonary embolism, and pulmonary fibrosis are a few examples of pulmonary problems.

Patients should be informed about the signs and symptoms of respiratory failure as well as the significance of device and medication compliance, as well as the relationship between modifiable risk factors and disease prevention.