ARDS

Diagnosis of ARDS

There’s no single test to diagnose acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Diagnosis is based on a combination of physical exams, chest imaging, blood oxygen levels, and ruling out other heart or lung conditions that cause similar symptoms.

Imaging Tests

• Chest X-ray: Shows which areas of the lungs are filled with fluid and whether the heart is enlarged.

• CT scan: Provides detailed, cross-sectional images of the lungs and heart to better assess fluid buildup and lung damage.

Lab Tests

• Arterial blood gas test: Measures oxygen levels in the blood.

• Other blood tests: Check for infection or related conditions.

• Airway secretion test: If a lung infection is suspected, airway secretions may be collected to identify the cause.

Heart Tests

Because ARDS symptoms can resemble heart problems, heart testing may be done to rule them out.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Tracks electrical activity of the heart to detect irregular rhythms or heart strain.

• Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to create moving images of the heart, showing blood flow and heart valve function.

Treatment of ARDS

The primary goal in treating ARDS is to increase oxygen levels in the blood to support organ function and prevent complications.

Oxygen Therapy

• Extra oxygen: For mild symptoms or short-term use, oxygen may be delivered through a tight-fitting mask.

• Mechanical ventilation: Most people with ARDS require a ventilator to help push air into the lungs and clear fluid from the air sacs.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)

ECMO is used in severe ARDS cases when mechanical ventilation isn’t enough.

• It acts as an artificial heart and lung, removing blood from the body, adding oxygen, and returning it.

• ECMO allows the lungs to rest and heal.

• Because of the risks, this treatment is considered carefully by the healthcare team.

Prone Positioning

Lying on the stomach during ventilation, known as prone positioning, may help improve oxygen flow in the lungs for some people with ARDS.

Fluid Management

IV fluid levels are closely controlled:

• Too much fluid can worsen lung swelling.

• Too little can stress the heart and organs, leading to shock.

Medication

People with ARDS may receive medicines to:

• Prevent and treat infections.

• Reduce pain and discomfort.

• Prevent blood clots.

• Decrease acid reflux.

• Calm anxiety or agitation.

Lung Transplant

When other treatments don’t work, a lung transplant may be considered for selected patients who were healthy before ARDS. This procedure is complex and performed at specialized transplant centers with experienced teams.