When a patient is unable to breathe normally, then doctors keep him on ventilator support. This is a life saving machine which helps the patient in breathing. Ventilators are typically used when a patient’s lungs or breathing muscles fail to function properly, such as during severe lung disease, major surgery, or a serious infection. At the same time, after looking at the patient’s oxygen, carbon dioxide level, breathing efforts and overall health, the doctor decides whether the patient needs a ventilator or not. In such a situation, let us tell you today when the body needs ventilator support.
When is ventilator support needed?
- Severe breathing problems – When the lungs are unable to exchange gas properly, which leads to a lack of oxygen and an increase in the amount of carbon dioxide in the body. In such a situation, ventilator support is required.
- Serious injury or illness – In case of major injury, condition like stroke or sepsis, breathing becomes weak and ventilator may be required.
- Neurological problems- In case of stroke, spinal cord injury or muscle weakening diseases, the breathing muscles stop working. After this a ventilator is required.
- During major surgery or anesthesia – Anesthesia can cause breathing to stop during the operation, so a ventilator is needed temporarily.
- Heart problem- After heart failure or heart attack, the body does not get enough oxygen, in such a situation a ventilator may be necessary.
Which signs indicate the need for a ventilator?
There are some important signs of the patient by which doctors decide whether he needs a ventilator or not. These signs include breathing with great difficulty, lack of oxygen in the blood, increased amount of carbon dioxide in the blood, confusion and fatigue of the breathing muscles.
Dangers of using ventilator
Ventilator saves many lives, but its use for a long time can also pose some risks. For example, being on a ventilator for a long time can cause infection in the lungs. At the same time, lungs can become weak due to prolonged pressure from the machine. Apart from this, there can also be a risk of muscle weakness or blood clot due to sedation and not walking. At the same time, when the patient’s health improves, the doctors gradually reduce the support. During this period, the patient’s breathing ability, oxygen level and body condition are continuously monitored. It is very important to remove the ventilator at the right time, because removing it too early can lead to respiratory arrest again, while removing it too late can also cause many types of problems.
Also read: Weight loss or fat loss… What is the right method for blood sugar patients?
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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