ARDS

What is ARDS?
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) occurs when fluid builds up in the tiny, elastic air sacs (alveoli) in your lungs. This fluid prevents the lungs from filling with enough air, meaning less oxygen reaches your bloodstream.

ARDS typically occurs in people who are already critically ill or have significant injuries. It is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Symptoms

Symptoms usually develop within a few hours to a few days after the original injury or disease. They include:

• Severe shortness of breath.
• Labored and unusually rapid breathing.
• Low blood pressure.
• Confusion and extreme tiredness.

⚠️ MEDICAL EMERGENCY
ARDS usually follows a major illness or injury, so most affected people are already in the hospital. However, if you have severe shortness of breath after a recent injury or illness, call emergency services immediately.

Causes: Fluid Leakage

[Image of alveoli fluid buildup]

The mechanical cause involves fluid leaking from the smallest blood vessels in the lungs into the tiny air sacs where blood is oxygenated. Normally, a membrane keeps this fluid in the vessels. Severe illness or injury causes inflammation that damages this membrane.

Common Underlying Causes

• Sepsis: The most common cause. A serious, widespread infection of the bloodstream.
• Inhalation of Harmful Substances: Breathing high concentrations of smoke, chemical fumes, or aspirating vomit.
• Severe Pneumonia: Usually affecting all lobes of the lungs.
• Head or Chest Injury: Accidents like falls or car crashes can directly damage the lungs or the brain's breathing center.

Risk Factors

You are at higher risk if you have Sepsis or a history of chronic alcoholism. Chronic alcohol use also increases the risk of death from ARDS.

Complications

While treatments have improved, survivors may face lasting issues:

• Pulmonary Fibrosis: Scarring of the tissue between air sacs, making lungs stiff.
• Collapsed Lung (Pneumothorax): The pressure from a ventilator can sometimes cause a small hole in the lung, leading to collapse.
• Blood Clots: Lying still for long periods increases the risk of clots in the legs (DVT) or lungs (Pulmonary Embolism).
• Cognitive Problems: Low oxygen levels and sedatives can lead to memory loss or "brain fog" after recovery.

Diagnosis

There is no single test for ARDS. Diagnosis involves ruling out other conditions (like heart failure) that produce similar symptoms.

• Imaging (Chest X-ray/CT): To reveal fluid in the lungs.
• Lab Tests: Arterial blood gas test to measure oxygen levels.
• Heart Tests (ECG/Echocardiogram): To ensure the breathing difficulty isn't caused by a heart problem.

Treatment

The primary goal is to get oxygen to the organs while the body heals.

1. Oxygen Therapy

• Supplemental Oxygen: Delivered through a mask for milder cases.
• Mechanical Ventilation: A machine pushes air into the lungs and forces fluid out of the air sacs.

2. Fluid Management

Doctors carefully manage intravenous fluids. Too much fluid worsens the buildup in the lungs; too little strains the heart and kidneys.

3. Medication

Medications are used to prevent infections, relieve pain, minimize gastric reflux, and prevent blood clots.

Recovery & Lifestyle

Recovering from ARDS takes time. Protect your lungs by:

• Quitting Smoking: Essential for lung healing. Avoid secondhand smoke.
• Vaccinations: Get the yearly flu shot and pneumonia vaccine to prevent lung infections.
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Therapy to improve lung capacity and strength.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.