Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) usually affects people who are unwell with conditions such as sepsis or pneumonia, or have severe injuries.

Symptoms of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) usually include shortness of breath and taking short, fast breaths.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is treated in hospital. Treatment usually includes oxygen, ventilation, medicines and fluids.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) can cause long-term problems, including shortness of breath, muscle weakness and pain.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a serious illness caused by your lungs not working properly. It’s usually caused by another condition.