Lung Failure: Understanding the Risks and Consequences

If lungs stop working, the body cannot oxygenate blood → hypoxia → death within minutes.

Normal Gas Exchange

Inhaled air reaches alveoli (tiny air sacs) lined with capillaries. Oxygen diffuses into blood; CO₂ diffuses out. Oxygen-rich blood goes to body; CO₂-rich blood returns to lungs for exhalation.

Consequences of Lung Failure

Gas exchange stops → blood oxygen falls → hypoxia symptoms:

• Shortness of breath
• Confusion
• Dizziness, lightheadedness
• Loss of consciousness
• Death

Hypoxia damages brain, heart, kidneys, other organs. Lung failure beyond a few minutes is likely fatal.