Which respiratory condition often leads to increased work of breathing and may prompt mechanical ventilation?

• A. Asthma exacerbation
• B. Chronic bronchitis
• C. ARDS
• D. Pneumonia

Answer: (C)

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a critical condition characterized by severe inflammation and fluid accumulation in the alveoli, resulting in impaired gas exchange. This leads to significant hypoxemia and increased work of breathing because the lungs become less compliant, making it harder for the individual to inhale adequately. In ARDS, patients often exhibit rapid, shallow breathing due to discomfort and the body’s attempt to compensate for the low oxygen levels. The high demand for oxygen and the insufficient ability to meet this demand can necessitate mechanical ventilation to support breathing and ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation.

While asthma exacerbations, chronic bronchitis, and pneumonia can also lead to increased work of breathing, ARDS typically presents with more severe respiratory failure and often requires more aggressive intervention, including mechanical ventilation, to manage the respiratory distress and improve the patient's oxygenation status. In the case of an asthma exacerbation, while it can lead to significant respiratory distress, it may not require mechanical ventilation unless it progresses to a critical state. Chronic bronchitis presents with work of breathing over time but is usually managed with less invasive treatments. Pneumonia can also lead to difficulty breathing, but ARDS represents a more acute and severe form of respiratory failure that typically demands immediate and advanced