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What is Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
ARDS Full Form is Acute respiratory distress syndrome, a life-threatening medical condition caused by lung inflammation. This inflammation makes it difficult for the lungs to bring oxygen into the bloodstream. As a result, the body’s cells and organs may not get the oxygen they need to function properly.
Causes of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
There is no one specific cause of ARDS. Rather, it is often the result of a combination of factors, including:
- Inhalation of toxins or noxious gases
- Inhalation of vomit or food
- Inhalation of blood or other body fluids
- Complications from a serious infection, such as pneumonia
- Severe chest injuries
- Severe burns
- Shock
- Organ failures, such as liver or kidney failure
- Nasal or lung surgery
Diagnosis of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
The diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome is typically made in patients who present with progressive respiratory failure and bilateral infiltrates on chest radiography.
Other tests that may be performed to help diagnose ARDS include arterial blood gas analysis, which may show hypoxemia and hypercapnia, and a chest CT scan, which may show bilateral infiltrates.
Treatment of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
There is currently no cure for ARDS, so treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing further injury. Treatment options include:
- Mechanical ventilation – This involves using a machine to help you breathe. If you have ARDS, you may need to be on a ventilator for a period of time.
- Oxygen therapy – Supplemental oxygen may be needed to help improve oxygen levels in your blood.
- Fluid management – You may need to receive fluids through a vein (intravenously) to help improve blood pressure and organ function.
- Nutrition – You may need to receive nutrients through a vein if you cannot eat on your own.
- Pain relief – You may need medication to help relieve pain.
