Understanding Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS): Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a serious lung condition that occurs when fluid builds up in the tiny air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs, preventing oxygen from reaching the bloodstream and organs. This can lead to low oxygen levels in the body, causing organs like the kidneys or brain to malfunction or even shut down. ARDS is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Causes and Risk Factors of ARDS

ARDS is usually triggered by another health problem, and most people who develop the condition are already hospitalized for a different reason. Some common causes of ARDS include:

• Sepsis (a severe infection in the bloodstream)

• Accidents or injuries that damage the lungs or brain

• Breathing in harmful substances like dense smoke or chemical fumes

• Pneumonia

• Severe bleeding requiring blood transfusions

• Inflamed pancreas (pancreatitis)

• Drug overdose

• Near-drowning

• Burns

• Reactions to medications

• Aspiration (breathing food into the lungs)

Certain factors may increase the risk of developing ARDS, such as:

• Genetic predisposition

• Heavy alcohol use

• Smoking tobacco

• Using oxygen for a pre-existing lung condition

• Recent high-risk surgery or chemotherapy

• Obesity

Symptoms of ARDS

ARDS puts a significant strain on the lungs, and common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath

• Low blood pressure

• Rapid breathing and heartbeat

• Cough

• Fever

• Chest pain, especially when breathing deeply

• Confusion and exhaustion

• Blue-tinted lips or nails (due to low oxygen levels)

• Dizziness

Diagnosing ARDS

There is no single test to diagnose ARDS. Instead, doctors piece together information from various sources to identify the condition and rule out other diseases with similar symptoms. The diagnostic process may include:

• A thorough medical history and physical examination

• Listening to the patient's breathing and heartbeat

• Checking for signs of excess fluid in the body and bluish discoloration of the lips or skin

• Imaging tests like chest X-rays and CT scans to assess fluid levels in the lungs

• Blood tests to measure oxygen levels and check for signs of infection or anemia

• Heart tests to rule out conditions like heart failure

Treating ARDS

The primary goal of ARDS treatment is to increase blood oxygen levels to ensure that organs receive adequate oxygen supply. Treatment may involve:

• Oxygen therapy using an air mask or a breathing tube connected to a ventilator

• Treating underlying conditions that may be causing ARDS

• Providing nutrition and medication through intravenous fluids

• Administering medication to prevent bleeding and blood clots

• Giving medication to keep the patient calm and comfortable

Most ARDS treatment takes place in a hospital's intensive care unit. Many people make a full recovery without long-term complications.

Potential Complications of ARDS

ARDS or its treatment may lead to additional complications, such as:

• Lung collapse (atelectasis) or air between the lung and chest wall (pneumothorax)

• Organ damage or failure

• Confusion

• High blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension)

• Scarred lung tissue (pulmonary fibrosis)

• Blood clots

• Infection

Recovery and Prevention

To improve recovery after ARDS, patients should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. Some may require prolonged ventilator support and physical therapy to regain strength. Staying up-to-date with vaccinations for COVID-19, RSV, and pneumonia, as well as getting an annual flu shot, can lower the risk of developing ARDS.

ARDS can be emotionally and physically challenging for patients and their families. Joining a support group may help in managing anxiety, stress, and depression associated with the condition.

The Bottom Line

This life-threatening condition requires immediate intensive care with specialized ventilation strategies, but prompt treatment can achieve survival rates above 60%. The key is recognizing symptoms early—severe breathlessness, confusion, and bluish skin require emergency intervention. If you're concerned about respiratory symptoms or need guidance on breathing difficulties, Doctronic can provide quick answers and help determine when immediate medical care is needed.