Type 1 and 2 respiratory failure are both dangerous and cause severe hypoxia, but type 2 respiratory failure can also be associated with symptoms such as carbon dioxide retention.
Type 1 respiratory failure is diffusion dysfunction manifesting as hypoxemia with or without decreased partial pressure of carbon dioxide; type 2 respiratory failure is usually obstructive ventilation dysfunction resulting in carbon dioxide retention, hypoxemia, and hypercapnia, which may be accompanied by dysfunction of diffusion function and ventilation and blood flow.
Type I respiratory failure manifests itself as hypoxia, with symptoms such as dyspnea, coughing, and breathlessness, while type II respiratory failure may be characterized by headache, irritability, lethargy, or respiratory depression in addition to the symptoms of type I respiratory failure.
Regardless of the type of respiratory failure, you should seek medical attention in a timely manner and be treated under the guidance of your doctor.