ARDS vs. ARF — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 30, 2023
ARDS is a lung condition causing severe shortness of breath; ARF refers to sudden kidney failure.
Difference Between ARDS and ARF
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) is severe inflammation and fluid buildup in the alveoli of the lungs, leading to respiratory failure. ARF (Acute Renal Failure), now more commonly known as Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), is the sudden loss of kidney function, leading to the retention of waste products in the blood.
ARDS is caused by trauma, infection, or inflammation in the body that leads to lung damage. In ARF, causes can include severe dehydration, a sudden drop in blood pressure, or direct damage to the kidneys.
In ARDS, the oxygen transfer is impeded, necessitating mechanical ventilation for support. ARF affects the filtering of blood in the kidneys, often requiring dialysis for treatment.
ARDS prognosis depends on the severity of lung damage and the patient's overall health; survival rates vary. The prognosis of ARF can range from complete recovery to chronic kidney disease, depending on the cause and promptness of treatment.
ARDS requires intensive care unit management, with a focus on lung protection and supportive care. ARF management focuses on addressing the underlying cause and supporting kidney function.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Lung disorder with severe shortness of breath.
Sudden decline in kidney function.
Causes
Trauma, infection, inflammation.
Dehydration, drop in blood pressure, kidney damage.
Main Affected Organ
Lungs
Kidneys
Treatment
Mechanical ventilation, ICU care.
Dialysis, medication, fluid management.
Potential Outcomes
Recovery, long-term impairment, death.
Recovery, chronic kidney disease, death.
Compare with Definitions
Ards
A severe lung condition.
After the car accident, he developed ARDS and needed a ventilator.
Arf
May result in fluid overload.
In ARF, fluid management is critical to prevent overload.
Ards
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
ARDS often requires intensive respiratory support.
Arf
Often requires dialysis temporarily.
Temporary dialysis may be used to treat patients with ARF.
Ards
Characterized by fluid in the lungs.
The chest X-ray showed bilateral infiltrates, indicative of ARDS.
Arf
Acute loss of kidney function.
The dehydration led to ARF, necessitating dialysis.
Ards
Can lead to respiratory failure.
Her condition escalated to ARDS, compromising her breathing.
Arf
Acute Renal Failure.
ARF can be reversible with prompt treatment.
Ards
Requires intensive care treatment.
Patients with ARDS are typically treated in the ICU.
Arf
Can cause waste accumulation.
Elevated creatinine levels in his blood suggested ARF.
Ards
Plural of ard
Arf
Representing the sound of a dog's bark.
Ards
Acute lung injury characterized by coughing and rales; inflammation of the lungs which become stiff and fibrous and cannot exchange oxygen; occurs among persons exposed to irritants such as corrosive chemical vapors or ammonia or chlorine etc.
Common Curiosities
How is ARDS treated?
ARDS is treated with mechanical ventilation and supportive care in an ICU setting.
What is ARDS?
ARDS is a lung condition causing severe shortness of breath and respiratory failure due to fluid-filled alveoli.
What causes ARF?
Causes of ARF include severe dehydration, infection, or direct kidney damage.
What does ARF stand for?
ARF stands for Acute Renal Failure, a sudden loss of kidney function.
Who is at risk for ARDS?
People with severe trauma, sepsis, or pneumonia are at higher risk for ARDS.
What is the mortality rate of ARDS?
The mortality rate of ARDS varies but can be as high as 40-50% in severe cases.
What are the symptoms of ARDS?
Symptoms of ARDS include severe shortness of breath, rapid breathing, and low blood oxygen levels.
Can ARF lead to chronic kidney disease?
Yes, if not treated promptly, ARF can progress to chronic kidney disease.
How is ARF diagnosed?
ARF is diagnosed through blood tests, urine tests, and imaging to assess kidney function.
Can ARDS be cured?
ARDS can be managed, and some patients recover fully, but it can also cause long-term lung damage.
Are ARF and AKI the same?
Yes, Acute Renal Failure (ARF) is more commonly referred to as Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) nowadays.
Can ARDS and ARF occur together?
Yes, critical illnesses can lead to multiple organ failure, including both ARDS and ARF.
Can ARF affect other organs?
Yes, ARF can affect other organs due to the buildup of toxins in the blood.
How long does it take to recover from ARDS?
Recovery from ARDS can take weeks to months, depending on its severity and complications.
What is the recovery like for ARF?
Recovery from ARF can be complete with proper treatment, but sometimes it may lead to long-term kidney issues.
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Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.