Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Also known as:  Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome;  ARDS

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome is Lung failure that results from various other ailments that cause Pulmonary Edema (accumulation of fluid on the Lungs).  Thirty three percent of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome patients develop the syndrome as a result of widespread infection (sepsis).  It occurs when the Alveoli and Capillaries of the Lungs are injured, causing Blood to leak into the spaces between the Alveoli, and eventually into the Alveoli themselves.  The Inflammation that follows can lead to Scar Tissue formation in the Lungs that prevents the proper functioning of the Lungs.  Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome normally develops 24 to 48 hours after the original ailment or injury.  The patient initially experiences shortness of breath, generally with rapid, shallow breathing.