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—Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
"When every breath counts, better treatments can’t wait."
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a severe lung condition that causes widespread inflammation and fluid buildup in the lungs, leading to severe breathing difficulties. Often triggered by infections, injuries, or other medical conditions, ARDS progresses rapidly and can be life-threatening. Also referred to as acute lung injury or respiratory failure syndrome, this condition has limited treatment options. PhorMed is working to develop innovative therapies that could reduce lung damage and improve recovery for patients facing this critical condition.
What is ARDS?

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a severe, life-threatening condition characterized by the rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs. It leads to fluid accumulation in the alveoli (tiny air sacs), which severely impairs oxygen exchange and causes respiratory failure. ARDS often occurs in critically ill patients as a complication of various medical conditions, such as severe infections, trauma, or inhalation injuries.

Symptoms of ARDS

The symptoms of ARDS can develop within hours to days after the triggering event and may include:

  1. Severe shortness of breath: A hallmark of ARDS, making it difficult to breathe even at rest.
  2. Rapid breathing: Also called tachypnea, where the respiratory rate increases significantly.
  3. Low blood oxygen levels (hypoxemia): Despite supplemental oxygen, the blood’s oxygen saturation remains dangerously low.
  4. Cough: Often dry, though it may include sputum in some cases.
  5. Fatigue: Extreme tiredness or weakness due to inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues.
  6. Bluish tint to skin and lips (cyanosis): Caused by insufficient oxygen in the blood.
  7. Confusion or dizziness: Stemming from inadequate oxygen supply to the brain.

In severe cases, ARDS can lead to organ failure and is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

Incidence of ARDS

ARDS can affect people of all ages but is more prevalent in critically ill patients. The incidence varies by population and healthcare settings:

  • Worldwide estimates: ARDS affects approximately 10% of patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) and occurs in about 23% of those requiring mechanical ventilation.
  • United States: ARDS is diagnosed in over 200,000 cases annually, with mortality rates ranging from 30% to 50%, depending on the severity and underlying health conditions.
  • COVID-19 and ARDS: The global pandemic has significantly increased ARDS incidence due to severe respiratory infections leading to complications.

Patients with conditions like sepsis, pneumonia, trauma, or those undergoing major surgeries are at higher risk of developing ARDS.