ACUTE RESPIRATORY

DISTRESS SYNDROME
(ARDS)
 OVERVIEW
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is sudden, life-threatening lung
failure. ARDS inflames the alveoli, causing them to fill with liquid and collapse. Once
the alveoli collapse, gas exchange ceases, and the body becomes starved of oxygen.

ARDS requires treatment with mechanical ventilation or some other form of

assisted breathing. ARDS is a syndrome, not a specific disease. A variety of underlying
conditions, from blood-borne infections to major trauma, can cause the characteristic
inflammation and accumulation of fluid (edema) in the alveoli. ARDS usually
develops within 24 to 48 hours of the injury or illness.

The duration and intensity of the condition can vary considerably from patient
to patient. The mortality rate from ARDS ranges from 35—50 percent. In most cases,
death results from underlying disease or from complications of mechanical ventilation.
In patients who survive, normal lung function usually resumes within 6 to 12 months.
DEFINITION
• Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome –
occurs when fluids builds up tiny, elastic air
sacs (alveoli) in your lungs. The fluid keeps
your lungs from filling with enough air,
which means less oxygen reaches your
bloodstream. This deprives your organs of
the oxygen they need to function.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
 Labored and rapid breathing
 Muscle fatigue and general weakness
 Low blood pressure
 Discolored skin or nails
 Dry, hacking cough
 Fever
 Headaches
 Fast pulse rate
 Mental confusion