What is ARDS?

ARDS, or Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, is a serious lung condition. It happens when fluid builds up in the air sacs of the lungs. Because of this, the lungs cannot fill with enough air. As a result, less oxygen reaches the blood. This can make it hard for organs to work well. According to the CDC, ARDS often develops quickly and needs urgent medical care. Although ARDS can affect anyone, it is more common in people who are already very ill or have major injuries.

Common Symptoms of ARDS

Early signs of ARDS can look like other breathing problems. However, symptoms often get worse fast. Watch for these signs:

Severe shortness of breath

Fast, shallow breathing

Low blood oxygen levels

Feeling very tired or weak

Confusion or dizziness

Blue tint to lips or fingernails

Because ARDS symptoms can appear suddenly, it is important to act quickly. If you notice these signs, seek medical help right away.

Causes and Risk Factors

ARDS is not a disease itself. Instead, it is a reaction to another health problem. Many things can cause ARDS. For example, common causes include:

Pneumonia or other lung infections

Sepsis (a severe infection in the body)

Severe injury or trauma

Inhaling harmful substances, like smoke or chemicals

Near-drowning

Some people have a higher risk of ARDS. These risk factors include:

Older age

Chronic lung disease

Heavy alcohol use

Weakened immune system

Even so, ARDS can happen to anyone after a serious illness or injury.

How ARDS is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose ARDS. First, they check your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may order tests, such as:

Chest X-ray or CT scan to look for fluid in the lungs

Blood tests to check oxygen levels

Pulse oximetry to measure oxygen in the blood

Tests to rule out other causes of breathing problems

Because ARDS can look like other lung issues, doctors use these tests to make sure of the diagnosis. According to the WHO, early diagnosis helps improve outcomes.

Treatment Options for ARDS

Treating ARDS usually means caring for the lungs and treating the cause. Most people with ARDS need to stay in the hospital. Often, they need care in an intensive care unit (ICU). Treatment options include:

Oxygen therapy to help you breathe

Mechanical ventilation (a breathing machine) if needed

Medications to treat infections or reduce inflammation

Fluids and nutrition support

Other treatments to support the heart and kidneys

Although recovery can take time, many people improve with proper care. Some may need rehabilitation after leaving the hospital.

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

While you cannot always prevent ARDS, you can lower your risk. Here are some helpful tips:

Get vaccinated against flu and pneumonia

Wash your hands often to avoid infections

Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke

Limit alcohol use

Wear safety gear to prevent injuries

Because some causes of ARDS are not preventable, it is important to stay healthy and seek care for infections or injuries quickly.

When to Seek Emergency Care

ARDS is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know has:

Severe trouble breathing

Blue lips or nails

Confusion or fainting

Call emergency services right away. Quick treatment can save lives. Even if you are unsure, it is better to get checked by a doctor.

If you or someone you know shows signs of ARDS, consult a healthcare specialist at Rapicue Healthcare for immediate, personalized care and expert treatment options.