Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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ARDS - Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the disease?
Prevention of ARDS depends on the cause. Avoiding exposure to infection may prevent some cases that are caused by infection. Avoiding smoking, drugs, and alcohol may decrease the risk of lung problems in general. Seeking prompt treatment for illnesses may also decrease the risk of ARDS. Many cases can't be prevented.
What are the long-term effects of the disease?
Four out of ten people who have ARDS will die from it, even with treatment. But the other 60 percent will survive, if they receive the right treatment. Those who respond quickly to treatment often have no long-term effects. But those who needed to stay on a ventilator for a long time to treat their ARDS may have ongoing lung problems, including infections. Other long-term effects are related to the cause of ARDS. For example, pneumonia can permanently damage the lungs and even cause death.
What are the risks to others?
ARDS itself is not catching. If it is caused by an infection such as pneumonia, the infection may be contagious.