Acute respiratory distress syndrome

Definition

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe lung condition characterized by rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs, leading to respiratory failure. It often occurs as a complication of various medical conditions, including viral infections, where the immune response can cause damage to the alveoli, impairing gas exchange and leading to hypoxia.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ARDS can develop within hours to days after the initial injury or infection, making early recognition critical for management.
2. The condition is often triggered by infections like influenza or COVID-19, but can also result from trauma, pneumonia, or sepsis.
3. Patients with ARDS may require mechanical ventilation to support breathing due to the significant decrease in lung function.
4. A hallmark of ARDS is decreased lung compliance, meaning the lungs become stiff and difficult to inflate, leading to inadequate oxygenation.
5. Survivors of ARDS may experience long-term effects such as decreased lung function, cognitive impairment, and psychological issues.

Review Questions

• How does acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) develop in relation to viral infections?
  • ARDS develops when a viral infection triggers an exaggerated immune response that leads to inflammation in the lungs. This inflammation damages the alveoli, making them less effective at gas exchange. The cytokine storm associated with severe infections can further exacerbate lung injury, resulting in fluid buildup and reduced oxygen delivery to the bloodstream.
• What role does pulmonary edema play in the pathophysiology of acute respiratory distress syndrome?
  • Pulmonary edema is a key feature of ARDS that results from increased permeability of the pulmonary capillaries due to inflammation. This fluid accumulation in the alveoli impairs gas exchange and can lead to further respiratory compromise. The presence of pulmonary edema not only worsens hypoxia but also contributes to the stiffening of the lungs, complicating treatment efforts.
• Evaluate the long-term implications for patients who survive acute respiratory distress syndrome and how these effects might influence future health care needs.
  • Patients who survive ARDS often face significant long-term challenges, including reduced lung function and persistent cognitive and psychological issues. These complications can lead to an increased need for ongoing medical care, rehabilitation services, and mental health support. Understanding these long-term effects is crucial for healthcare providers as they develop comprehensive post-ARDS care plans that address both physical recovery and psychological well-being.

Related terms

Alveoli: Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs, allowing oxygen to enter the blood and carbon dioxide to be expelled.

Cytokine Storm: An overreaction of the immune system that leads to excessive inflammation and tissue damage, often seen in severe viral infections like COVID-19.

Pulmonary Edema: The accumulation of fluid in the lungs, which can occur in ARDS and contribute to breathing difficulties and reduced oxygen levels.