Understanding ARDS: Symptoms, Causes, and Clinical Signs Explained #3075987 (License: Personal Use)

This hand-drawn medical illustration depicts a patient experiencing ARDS, visibly struggling to breathe while holding an X-ray showing diffuse opacities labeled “WHITE LUNG.” Key clinical features are organized into sections: signs & symptoms (tachypnea, retractions, crackles), arterial blood gas abnormalities (↓PaO₂, ↑dyspnea), and common causes (massive trauma, septic condition, hemorrhagic shock). The ventilator labeled “VENT-O-MATIC” and the thought bubble (“My heart is racing and I can’t catch my breath”) reinforce the acute distress and physiological urgency.

Used in medical education, ICU training modules, or patient-facing health resources to explain ARDS pathophysiology and recognition. Matches user intent for clinical learning, differential diagnosis review, or caregiver orientation.