Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome C2887484
A life-threatening lung condition where fluid leaks into the air sacs, making breathing extremely difficult. Can result from infections, injuries, or other critical illnesses. Patients typically need intensive care with mechanical ventilation support.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- J80
- ICD-11
- CA00.0
- Body system
- respiratory
- Severity
- critical
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Severe dyspnea
Shortness of breath or cough
Symptoms may be severe and require urgent medical attention.
Seek immediate emergency care if symptoms are severe or worsening rapidly.
Tachypnea
Cough
(respiratory)Hemoptysis
(respiratory)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Mechanical Ventilation with Low Tidal Volume
Protective ventilation strategy using low tidal volumes (6mL/kg ideal body weight) with adequate PEEP to minimize ventilator-induced lung injury while maintaining oxygenation. Requires intensive monitoring and ventilator weaning protocols.
Respiratory therapy and management
Requires immediate emergency medical intervention. Do not delay treatment.
Prone Positioning
Technique of positioning patients face-down for 12-16 hours daily to improve ventilation-perfusion matching and lung recruitment. Most effective when initiated early in the course of ARDS.
Additional treatment options
Neuromuscular Blocking Agents
Short-acting paralytic agents used temporarily to improve chest wall compliance and reduce patient-ventilator dyssynchrony during the acute phase of severe ARDS.
medicationHemodynamic and Respiratory Monitoring
Comprehensive ICU monitoring including arterial blood gases, central venous pressure, and fluid balance assessment to guide fluid management and prevent fluid overload while maintaining organ perfusion.
monitoringEnteral Nutrition Support
Early initiation of enteral feeding within 24-48 hours of admission to prevent catabolism and maintain gut integrity. Protein-rich formulas help preserve muscle mass and immune function during critical illness.
dietaryWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Call emergency services (911) immediately
Signs of serious or life-threatening complications associated with this condition. Immediate medical evaluation is required.
Seek emergency medical care immediately if experiencing: difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden severe headache, loss of consciousness, sudden weakness or numbness, or signs of internal bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome C2887484?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Ranieri VM, Rubenfeld GD, Thompson BT, Ferguson ND, Caldwell E, Fan E, Camporota L, Slutsky AS. Acute respiratory distress syndrome: the Berlin Definition. JAMA. 2012.
Papazian L, Aubron C, Brochard L, Chiche JD, Combes A, Dreyfuss D, Forel JM, Guérin C, Joly F, Jaber S, Mekontso Dessap A. Prone positioning in acute respiratory distress syndrome: systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Intensive Care. 2020.
Guerin C, Reignier J, Richard JC, Beuret P, Gacouin A, Boulain T, Mercier E, Malain M, Colin C, Sarkisian M, Gouello O. Prone positioning in severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. N Engl J Med. 2013.
Thompson BT, Chambers RC, Liu KD. Acute respiratory distress syndrome. N Engl J Med. 2017.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome C2887484. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy