J80: Adult respiratory distress syndrome

Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a serious lung condition that causes shortness of breath and an inability to get enough oxygen into your blood. Usually a response to injury or illness, its onset can be rapid, presenting with severe difficulty breathing often accompanied by a bluish skin and lip color due to lack of oxygen. ARDS occurs when the tiny blood vessels in your lungs become damaged and start to leak fluid, causing your lungs to become heavy and stiff. This makes it hard for air to get in and out which leads to oxygen levels in the blood dropping dangerously. It can result from many different types of injuries, like severe trauma or infection, and diseases such as pneumonia. ARDS generally worsens quickly and can be life-threatening. However, with early recognition and prompt medical care, many people can survive and recover with time and appropriate treatment.