sofidexFor patientsAre you a clinician? Clinical site
Ask Sofi
Listen
Patient SupportEmergencies & Reporting
Log inSign up

Warning-sign checks

Acute respiratory distress syndrome: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency care for severe or sudden breathing difficulty, chest pain, coughing up blood, blue or gray discoloration, fainting, or new confusion.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact the regular healthcare team promptly for increasing breathlessness, a new fever, worsening cough, new leg swelling, reduced ability to complete usual activities, or problems with oxygen equipment.

    These symptoms are not part of routine recovery and should not wait for a scheduled appointment.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up usually begins soon after discharge from the hospital or rehabilitation facility.

    Visits may include a review of breathing, oxygen needs, medicines, nutrition, sleep, mood, memory, and the ability to manage daily activities.

    A clinician may arrange lung function testing, oxygen measurement during activity, or repeat chest imaging.

    These tests are based on symptoms and the hospital course; not every survivor needs the same testing.

The article also says

Rehabilitation can be an important part of recovery.

Physical therapy may rebuild strength and balance.

Occupational therapy can help with everyday tasks.

Pulmonary rehabilitation may combine supervised exercise, breathing education, and symptom management.

Speech therapy may help with swallowing, communication, or voice changes.

Return to work, driving, exercise, and other activities should be gradual and discussed with the care team.

Family members may also need support after a prolonged ICU stay.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Acute respiratory distress syndrome. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.