Treatment of ARDS primarily focuses on supportive care to maintain adequate oxygenation and minimize further lung injury. Key treatment strategies include:
1. Mechanical ventilation: This is often required to ensure adequate oxygenation. Strategies like low tidal volume ventilation and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) are commonly used. 2. Prone positioning: Placing patients in a prone position can improve oxygenation by redistributing lung perfusion and reducing lung compression. 3. Fluid management: Careful management of fluids is essential to prevent fluid overload and worsening of pulmonary edema. 4. Pharmacological interventions: Use of corticosteroids and other anti-inflammatory agents may be considered in certain cases to reduce inflammation. 5. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO): In severe cases where conventional ventilation fails, ECMO may be used to provide oxygenation and support to the lungs.
