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Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome


The Basics


Written by the doctors and editors at UpToDate � �
What is adult respiratory distress syndrome? " � Adult respiratory distress syndrome, or "ARDS, " � is a serious lung condition. It is caused by a buildup of fluid in the lungs. A buildup of fluid in the lungs can cause problems because it can keep oxygen from getting into the blood. Then the organs in the body do not get as much oxygen as they need. � �
What causes ARDS? " � Different conditions can cause ARDS, but the most common causes are: � �
  • Sepsis " � Sepsis is a serious illness that happens when an infection affects the whole body in a certain way.
  • Breathing vomit into the lungs
  • A lung infection
  • A severe injury to the lungs, such as from an accident

What are the symptoms of ARDS? " � Common symptoms of ARDS include: � �
  • Trouble breathing
  • Breathing much faster than usual
  • The fingertips and lips looking slightly blue

People can have other symptoms, too. It depends on the cause of their ARDS. For example, a lung infection can cause a fever and cough. � �
Should I see a doctor or nurse? " � Yes, as soon as possible. Many people who get ARDS are already in a hospital. But if you are not in a hospital, you (or the person with you) should call the doctor or nurse if you have any of the symptoms above. � �
If your doctor or nurse is not able to see you right away, or you cant reach him or her on the phone, go to the nearest emergency room. � �
Is there a test for ARDS? " � Yes. The doctor will do an exam and a chest X-ray. He or she might also do a CT scan of your lungs. A CT scan is an imaging test that can create pictures of the inside of the body. � �
The doctor will also do other tests to see what's causing the ARDS. � �
How is ARDS treated? " � ARDS is treated in the hospital, usually in the intensive care unit (called "ICU, " � for short). � �
People who are having a very hard time breathing usually need a breathing tube. A breathing tube is a tube that goes down the throat and into the lungs. The other end is attached to a machine that helps with breathing. � �
When the tube is in place, people are not able to eat or talk. Plus, they are usually sedated. That means the doctor has given them medicines to make them very sleepy. Once people can breathe on their own again, the doctor can take the tube out. � �
If the ARDS is caused by another condition that can be treated, the doctor will treat that condition, too. For example, lung infections are treated with antibiotics. � �
What problems can happen in people with ARDS? " � Different problems can happen during treatment. For example, people can get a lung infection from germs in the hospital. Or the breathing tube can harm their lungs or vocal cords (the small structures in the throat that let people speak). � �
Although some people with ARDS do not get better, many do get better. But people who get better will often have long-term lung problems caused by their ARDS. They might also have thinking problems, which can happen if the brain doesn't get enough oxygen. � �
All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. � �
This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: Nov 04, 2014. � �
Topic 17029 Version 3.0 � �
Release: 22.8 - C22.208 � �
� � 2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �

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This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.The use of UpToDate content is governed by the UpToDate Terms of Use. � �2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �

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