When is a ventilator needed?

Ventilators have become the ultimate meme of 2020. From presidential candidates flaunting their appreciation for them, to people on twitter trying desperately not to need one; these machines seem like they are everywhere! But enough about memes, let’s get serious…ish.

Do you really know when someone needs a ventilator? Your answer might be yes, but this article will make sure that your ‘yes’ isn’t just because everyone else seems to say so. Get ready for this fun ride full of informative and slightly sarcastic descriptions!

What is a Ventilator?

Be honest: Do you really know what a ventilator does? If not (or if you want me to confirm), here it is: A mechanical ventilation system helps with breathing by moving air in and out of the lungs via tubes connected through the mouth or nose.

• Is it only used during surgery?
• Why do some COVID patients get put on them?

Before we delve into those questions, let’s talk about something important first.

Who Should Be Worried About Needing A Ventilator?

Yes, there are people who should probably care more than others regarding whether they may need intubation or respiratory services. These include:

1. Those with existing lung issues (e.g., Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases)

2. Older adults as aging causes lung immunity degradation and could result in decreased resilience against viruses or bacteria

Now that we’ve addressed our concerns for seniors (no whispers please) let’s progress on further reasons why someone might end up requiring advanced medical breathing assistance.

Common Causes For Intubation or Mechanical Respiration Assistance

When normal respiration isn’t providing sufficient oxygen supply for an individual’s body parts/cells/systems/etc then intervention from external sources such as Artificial Breathing becomes necessary since the respiratory system is integral and supplementary to the circulatory, digestive, and immune systems amongst others. Usually this intervention involves an intubation method that opens direct airways from the mouth/nose into lungs so that oxygen can be delivered via a respiratory machine.

Why might someone need these kinds of life support methods? There are many reasons why mechanical breathing help might be necessary but here are some common ones:

1. The patient’s lung function has been compromised by health issues – cancer or COVID-19 for example – causing gaps in oxygen delivery which result in low blood saturation levels thereby posing adverse effects to other organs

2. Traumatic accidents especially spinal injuries where the person’s diaphragm muscle is paralyzed due to structural damage can lead people unable breathe effectively

3. COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases) smoking cessation is one way of preventing such diseases even though medicine treatments may help with respiration problems

4. Sleep apnea which causes intermittent interruptions during sleep patterns, often accompanied by snoring.

Often times it could take months before a sudden incidence puts you at risk!

So what do you do now?

How To Avoid Needing A Ventilator: Pro Tips

According to research-backed tips on current best practices aimed at avoiding ventilators while still able-bodied include practicing social distancing measures amidst pandemics coupled with maintaining excellent hygiene practice through proper cleaning schedules as well good nutritional choices aimed at fortifying healthy body cells activity against potential virus spoils; exercising regularly contributes substantially long term respiratory benefits towards keeping your lungs clear and efficient at supplying oxygen needed throughout your entire bodily system thus reducing reliance upon retinue medical devices like Ventilators! Remember how Spongebob went all muscular snap suddenly?

Good nutrition also helps improve overall immunity against interference both internal (microbes/viruses/bacteria/fungi etc) & External factors (Socio-Economic Changes/Physical Emergency Situations etc).

There’s a saying that goes: “A stitch in time saves nine!” Quick preventative measures may save someone from the tragic need for life support.

When Might A Ventilator Be Recommended?

As earlier observed, there are cases where respiratory support machines might become necessary but not everyone requires them. So under what conditions will your pulmonologist or physician recommend you to get artificially supplied breathing apparatuses?

1. If fluid builds up inside of your lungs

2. Accidents that lead to injuries which hinder normal breathing patterns and functions

3. Following Medical procedures such as heart surgery, sepsis treatments etcetera.

4. Severe asthma attacks requiring oxygen supplements

Also patients suffering severe infections like SARS COV19 may require mechanical ventilation especially those with complications resulting in pneumonia!

Don’t panic – just take safety precautions and stay healthy!

Dane Raynor

Hey there, I’m Dane Raynor, and I’m all about sharing fascinating knowledge, news, and hot topics. I’m passionate about learning and have a knack for simplifying complex ideas. Let’s explore together!