What tests are done to diagnose acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)?

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What tests are done to diagnose acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)?

When symptoms of ARDS occur, a combinations of tests may be done:

  • Chest X-ray to measure fluids in the lungs.
  • A blood test to determine oxygen level in the blood to help determine the severity of ARDS.
  • Echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) to evaluate heart function.

Sometimes, symptoms and signs of ARDS may require additional tests to diagnose other causes that are similar to ARDS.

  • A computerized tomography (CT scan) may be done to gain detailed information about the lungs.
  • Sampling of secretions from the airways may be taken to find the cause of infection.

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