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Medical Author:

Eloise M Harman, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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ARDS Treatment

Medical Treatment for ARDS

• Persons with ARDS are hospitalized and require treatment in an intensive care unit.

• No specific therapy for ARDS exists.

• Treatment is primarily supportive using a mechanical respirator and supplemental oxygen.

• Intravenous fluids are given to provide nutrition and prevent dehydration, and are carefully monitored to prevent fluid from accumulating in the lungs (pulmonary edema).

• Because infection is often the underlying cause of ARDS, appropriate antibiotic therapy is administered.

• Corticosteroids may sometimes be administered in ARDS or if the patient is in shock, but their use is controversial.