How is acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) treated?

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How is acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) treated?

ARDS is usually treated in the intensive care unit (ICU) along with treatment of the underlying cause.

Mechanical ventilation (a ventilator) is often used in caring for patients with ARDS. For milder cases of ARDS, oxygen may be given through a fitted face mask or a cannula fitted over the nose.

Steps to minimize complications (see below) from ARDS are commonly used. These include:

  • Sedation to manage pain.
  • Breathing tests to determine when it’s safe to remove the tube and ventilator.
  • Blood thinners to prevent clots.
  • Minimizing fluid buildup in the lungs.
  • Minimizing stress ulcers in the stomach.
  • Active mobility and physical therapy to prevent muscle weakness.

No direct drug therapy has been shown to improve survival in ARDS, but researchers continue to work on finding treatment.

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