Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS): Fast Facts

Acute respiratory distress syndrome, or ARDS, is a life-threatening lung problem.

Fluid builds up in the lungs, which makes it very difficult to breathe  and lowers the oxygen levels in the blood.

ARDS puts a strain on the heart and can keep oxygen from getting to organs like the brain and kidneys.

It usually happens in people who are being  treated for another serious illness or injury.

ARDS is treated in the  intensive care unit, or ICU.