Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening lung condition caused by fluid build-up in the tiny air sacs of the lungs, resulting in difficulty breathing. ARDS is usually caused by a serious infection, injury, or trauma, and can be fatal if not treated quickly. It can also be caused by a variety of other conditions, such as pneumonia, sepsis, and drug overdose.
Signs and Symptoms
The most common symptom of ARDS is rapid,
shallow breathing, which can be accompanied by other signs and symptoms, such as:
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Shortness of breath
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Chest pain
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Coughing
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Fatigue
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Confusion
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Rapid heartbeat
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Bluish-colored skin
Causes
ARDS is usually caused by a serious infection, injury, or trauma. It can also be caused by a variety of other conditions, such as pneumonia, sepsis, and drug overdose.
Risk Factors
Certain conditions and activities can increase your risk of developing ARDS, such as:
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Chronic lung disease
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Exposure to toxic fumes
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Smoking cigarettes
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Severe burns
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Surgery
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Heart attack
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Severe infection
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Drug overdose
Prevention
The best way to prevent ARDS is to avoid risk factors and take steps to improve your overall health. This includes avoiding smoking and limiting your exposure to toxins, such as air pollution. It’s also important to get vaccinated against serious infections, such as pneumonia and the flu, and to practice good hygiene.
Diagnosis
If you’re showing signs or symptoms of ARDS, your doctor will likely order tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include a chest X-ray, a CT scan, and a blood test. Your doctor may also order a bronchoscopy, in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into your lungs to look for fluid or other abnormalities.
Treatment
Treatment for ARDS depends on the cause. The main goal of treatment is to improve oxygen levels in the blood and reduce the amount of fluid in the lungs. Your doctor may prescribe oxygen therapy, antibiotics, diuretics, and/or mechanical ventilation. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove fluid from the lungs.
Coping and Support
Living with ARDS can be difficult and can take a toll on your mental and emotional health. It’s important to seek out support from family and friends, and to take part in activities that help you relax and cope with stress.
Complications
ARDS can lead to a number of serious complications, such as:
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Heart failure
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Respiratory failure
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Sepsis
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Organ damage
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Blood clots
Living with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Living with ARDS can be difficult, but there are things you can do to manage your condition. Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions and take all medications as prescribed. It’s also important to take steps to improve your overall health, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest. Finally, make sure to seek out support from family and friends to help you cope with the challenges of living with ARDS.
