Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition where the lungs can't provide the body's vital organs with enough oxygen.
It's usually a complication of a serious existing health condition. Most people have therefore already been admitted to hospital by the time they develop ARDS.
Symptoms of ARDS
Symptoms of ARDS can include:
- severe shortness of breath
- rapid, shallow breathing
- tiredness, drowsiness or confusion
- feeling faint
When to get urgent medical help
Although most people develop ARDS when they're already in hospital, this isn't always the case. It can develop quickly as a result of an infection such as pneumonia, or if someone accidentally inhales their vomit.
Dial 999 immediately to ask for an ambulance if a child or adult is having breathing problems.