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Difference Between Acute and Chronic Respiratory Acidosis

December 18, 2023
written by Sidra Batool

Key Difference

The key difference between acute and chronic respiratory acidosis lies in the onset and duration. Acute respiratory acidosis occurs rapidly due to a sudden failure in ventilation. Chronic respiratory acidosis develops over a longer period, often due to ongoing lung diseases like COPD.

Image showing Difference Between Acute and Chronic Respiratory Acidosis

Comparative Analysis

  1. Onset:
    • Acute: Rapid.
    • Chronic: Gradual, over time.
  2. Causes:
    • Acute: Sudden lung failure, obstruction.
    • Chronic: Long-term respiratory issues.

Table Summary of Acute vs Chronic Respiratory Acidosis

FeatureAcute Respiratory AcidosisChronic Respiratory Acidosis
OnsetRapidGradual
CausesSudden lung failureLong-term respiratory issues