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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffThe signs and symptoms of ARDS can vary in intensity, depending on its cause and severity. They include:
- Severe shortness of breath
- Labored and unusually rapid breathing
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion and extreme tiredness
- Cough or fever, in some cases
When to see a doctor
ARDS usually follows a major illness or injury, and most people who are affected are already hospitalized. Still, if you develop any serious breathing problem, see your doctor or get emergency care right away. Several disorders that require immediate treatment, including heart problems, have signs and symptoms similar to those of ARDS. In the case of ARDS, the need for medical treatment is urgent.
- What is ARDS? National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Ards/Ards_WhatIs.html. Accessed March 2, 2009.
- Adult (acute) respiratory distress syndrome. American Lung Association. http://www.lungusa.org/atf/cf/%7B7a8d42c2-fcca-4604-8ade-7f5d5e762256%7D/ALA_LDD08_ARDS_FINAL.PDF. Accessed March 2, 2009.
- Deal EN, et al. Role of corticosteroids in the management of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Clinical Therapeutics. 2008;30:787.
- George KJ. A systematic approach to care: Adult respiratory distress syndrome. Journal of Trauma Nursing. 2008;15:19.
- Zambon M, et al. Mortality rates for patients with acute lung injury/ARDS have decreased over time. Chest. 2008;133:1120.
- Leaver SK, et al. Acute respiratory distress syndrome. BMJ. 2007;335:389.
