[Respiratory insufficiency]

Respiratory failure results from the incompetence of the respiratory system to eliminate the CO2 produced by the metabolism and to extract the O2 from the atmosphere. Manifestations of the chronic form are: dyspnea, fatigue, headaches, oedema, polyglobulia, and also anxiety, denutrition, social isolation. If neglected, it will lead to pulmonary hypertension and rapidly fatal chronic cor pulmonale. At home mechanical ventilation and oxygen-therapy are the basis of treatment. Major goals of chronic treatment are: control of dyspnea and anxiety, maintenance of a regular physical activity and a sufficient alimentation. These goals can only be achieved by a network of professionals taking charge of these complex patients, with their periodic inclusion in a pulmonary rehabilitation program.