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Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

A life-threatening condition in which diffuse inflammation of the lungs causes acute respiratory failure.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göğüs Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)?

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is an acute respiratory failure picture that develops as a result of diffuse inflammation affecting lung alveoli and increased alveolocapillary permeability. Fluid leakage into the lungs severely impairs gas exchange.

Sepsis, severe pneumonia, trauma, burns, pancreatitis, and massive transfusion are the main triggers. COVID-19 has been the most prominent cause of ARDS in recent times.

A PaO2/FiO2 ratio falling below 300 mmHg and the appearance of bilateral lung infiltrations are the diagnostic criteria (Berlin definition criteria). Mortality can be over 40% in severe cases.

Symptoms

Sudden severe shortness of breath
Rapid and shallow breathing
Low oxygen saturation (cyanosis)
Symptoms of triggering disease (sepsis, pneumonia, etc.)
Use of accessory respiratory muscles
Confusion and agitation

Risk Factors

Sepsis and severe infections
Aspiration pneumonia
Polytrauma and burns
Massive blood transfusion
COVID-19 and other severe viral pneumonias

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call 112 immediately when sudden severe shortness of breath and low oxygen saturation occur
  • ARDS must be treated in intensive care conditions
  • Close monitoring is essential if there is a known triggering disease
  • Pulmonology clinic for long-term follow-up after discharge

Treatment Methods

01
Mechanical ventilation (protective ventilation strategy: low tidal volume)
02
High PEEP (keeping alveoli open)
03
Prone (face-down) position (improves oxygenation in severe cases)
04
Treatment of underlying cause (antibiotic, antifungal, etc.)
05
ECMO (in cases resistant to all treatments)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göğüs Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göğüs Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.