What is the primary consequence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)?

The primary consequence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is severe pulmonary edema and hypoxemia. ARDS is characterized by a rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs, which leads to increased permeability of the pulmonary capillaries. As a result, fluid leaks into the alveoli, causing pulmonary edema. This accumulation of fluid disrupts the normal gas exchange process, leading to hypoxemia, which is a deficiency in the oxygen levels in the bloodstream.

In individuals with ARDS, the fluid buildup significantly impairs lung function, making it difficult for oxygen to be absorbed into the blood and for carbon dioxide to be expelled. This condition can lead to severe respiratory failure and often requires mechanical ventilation support to assist with breathing. The severity of pulmonary edema and the associated hypoxemia are critical to the pathophysiology of ARDS and can lead to significant complications if not managed promptly and effectively.