What is type 1 respiratory failure?

Generally, Type I respiratory failure is one type of respiratory failure. The specific analysis is as follows:

Type I respiratory failure, also known as hypoxemic respiratory failure, is primarily defined by an arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO₂) below 60 mmHg under conditions of sea level, resting state, and breathing room air, while the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO₂) remains normal or decreased. From a pathophysiological standpoint, this condition mainly results from impaired gas exchange in the lungs. For example, pulmonary inflammation can thicken the alveolar-capillary membrane, increasing the diffusion distance for gases and making it difficult for oxygen to pass from the alveoli into the bloodstream, thereby reducing blood oxygen levels. In severe pneumonia, pathogens proliferate within the alveoli, triggering inflammatory responses that cause alveolar wall congestion and edema, which impede oxygen diffusion.

Clinical manifestations in patients with Type I respiratory failure are primarily characterized by dyspnea, which worsens with physical activity, along with possible cyanosis of the lips and fingernails. Due to inadequate oxygen delivery to body tissues, patients may also experience symptoms such as palpitations and restlessness. This type of respiratory failure often has an acute onset and may progress rapidly, necessitating prompt diagnosis and treatment to correct hypoxemia and improve respiratory function and oxygenation status.