Question:
Did anyone develop ARDS afer surgery?

I developed ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) three days into my recovery from RNY in early December. I was in the hospital for 3-1/2 weeks and on a ventilator for 8 days. I'm having a hard time recovering from the ARDS even though I do notice I get a tiny bit stronger every day. Has anyone else had this condition that can give me some hope on recovery? I feel so alone, no one seems to know what ARDS is or know what it means to have had it.    — Shayna T. (posted on January 6, 2005)

January 7, 2005
Yes, I had several complications that led up to ARDS. I was in ICU on a ventilator for 3 weeks. This was 10 months ago. I was in the hospital for 2 1/2 months. The only problem I had directly relating to ARDS was that it hurt to yawn or cough very deeply. I still feel it a little now but it is much better. Because the doctors put me in a drug induced coma during my time on the ventilator I could not walk and developed muscle atropy and lost a great amount of strength. I couldn't stand up on my own, turn over in bed, go to the toilet, bathe etc. You are not alone and you will get better. I am recovering much faster than the doctors thought I would. My main problem now is a cantelope size hernia that is a result of the three surguries I had from the complications. Please e-mail me for furthur info or if you just need to talk. I'll be happy to help.
   — Erin N.