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Human Respiration Problems From Drugs Overdose

Many physical problems can result from a drug overdose, the worst of which is death. An overdose occurs when a person takes more than the proper amount of a drug, either accidentally or intentionally. One of the most dangerous side effects of a drug overdose is breathing problems. It is important to recognize the signs of respiratory problems caused by a drug overdose and know when to seek medical help.

  1. Respiratory System

    • The respiratory system is a complex system that relies on several different body functions. External forces, such as trauma, or internal forces, such as a drug overdose, can disrupt this carefully choreographed process. The autonomic nervous system, located deep in the brain, controls the breathing process. Respiratory muscles, such as the diaphragm and ribcage muscles, work together to expand the lungs. In order to inhale and exhale properly, windpipe and lungs themselves must be clear of obstruction and fluids.

    Slow Breathing

    • Overdosing on drugs such as barbiturates, sedatives or phenothiazine can depress areas of the brain that control breathing. For adults, the normal respiration rate is 12 to 20 breaths per minute. Bradypnea is abnormally slow breathing, at a rate of 10 or fewer breaths per minute. Bradypnea can be life threatening as the body is unable to get enough oxygen. Patients with bradypnea are excessively sleepy or become unconscious and may stop breathing completely.

    Fast Breathing

    • Taking an overdose of drugs such as aspirin or analeptic drugs (used to stimulate the central nervous system) can cause hyperventilation, also known as "over breathing." When a person hyperventilates, there are chemical changes in the blood as carbon dioxide levels drop. This reduces the amount of blood going to the brain and can cause fainting, confusion and a feeling of being unable to breath.

    Respiratory Arrest

    • Respiratory arrest happens when breathing stops for more than five minutes. This is a life-threatening condition and causes irreversible damage to the brain and other organs. An overdose of drugs can interfere with the central nervous system and neuromuscular process. High doses of heroin can slow and eventually cause a complete cessation of respiration. Excessive nicotine use can also cause respiratory arrest by paralyzing the muscles that work to expand and contract the lungs.

    Shallow Breathing

    • Shallow breathing means slow and ineffective inhaling and exhaling. An overdose of drugs that act on the central nervous system neurons that control the breathing process can have this effect. Overdoses of opiate drugs such as morphine, codeine or heroin can cause shallow breathing. A methadone overdose can also cause shallow breathing.

    Pulmonary Edema

    • Most opiate-based drug overdoses will trigger a build up of excess fluid in lungs. Heroin is the drug most often associated with drug-induced pulmonary edema. However, cocaine and "crack," Darvon, methadone, Nubain, Subutex, Narcan and codeine overdoses have all been associated with pulmonary edema. The signs of pulmonary edema are frothy pink secretions and trouble breathing.

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