Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Symptoms & Signs (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, ARDS)

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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Symptoms & Signs
Category : Health Centers > Respiratory System (Lungs and Breathing)

Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Alternate Names : Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, ARDS

Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?

Symptoms of ARDS can vary, depending on the cause, but they usually develop within 1 to 3 days after a trauma or infection damages the lungs. Shortness of breath occurs first, followed in most cases by rapid, shallow breathing. Other symptoms may include:

anxiety and restlessness

cognitive impairment, which means having a hard time thinking

discoloration of the skin, including cyanosis, which is a bluish color in the skin, even with oxygen therapy

decreased urination

muscle weakness

noisy breathing

rapid heartbeat

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Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors		Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Diagnosis & Tests

Author: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Reviewer: Kathleen A. MacNaughton, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed: 10/07/02

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