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Your doctor will check your medical history, perform a physical exam, and do tests and procedures to diagnose respiratory failure.
Your doctor will ask you or your family members about your medical history and risk factors, especially any medical conditions that may affect your lungs and breathing. Your doctor will also ask if you have any symptoms of respiratory failure such as shortness of breath, rapid breathing, and confusion.
During a physical exam your doctor may do the following:
Diagnostic tests and procedures
To diagnose respiratory failure, your doctor may order some of the following tests and procedures.