This article will review some of the causes of ARDS and what to expect if you develop this problem.
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How Serious Is ARDS?
Those who survive face ongoing problems like permanent lung damage, depression, and other organ damage.
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What Is Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome?
ARDS is a severe respiratory condition that causes severe lung inflammation, limiting blood oxygenation and waste exchange.
ARDS can develop suddenly or over several days and usually progresses through the following three phases.
Is ARDS Contagious?
ARDS is not contagious because it’s not an infection.
Instead, it’s a severe but delayed reaction to a previous illness or injury.
But the ARDS response alone is not contagious.
What Causes ARDS?
ARDS is your body’s inflammatory immune response after an initial infection or injury.
Complications From ARDS
ARDS can lead to acute respiratory failure.
A chest X-ray is the primary diagnostic tool that helps differentiate ARDS from other heart and lung problems.
The overall goal of ARDS treatment is to support your breathing while your lung tissue heals and recovers.
Oxygen
Oxygen therapy is the primary treatment for ARDS.
Medication
You may already be receivingantiviralorantibioticmedications to treat the condition that triggered your ARDS.
This may include physical therapy, breathing exercises, and ongoing respiratory support.
Can You Prevent ARDS?
ARDS often requires mechanical ventilation and other invasive treatments, and mortality rates are high.
Even after recovery, you may have ongoing breathing issues.
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