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\nDamage to the lung\u2019s air sacs\u2014called alveoli\u2014causes ARDS. Fluid from tiny blood vessels leaks through the damaged walls of the air sacs and collects, limiting the lungs\u2019 normal exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. The damage also causes inflammation that leads to the breakdown of surfactant \u2014a liquid that helps keep your air sacs open.
\nThe air sacs may become damaged as a result of an illness, such as a lung infection, or breathing in smoke. Other illnesses or injuries may trigger inflammation that damages the air sacs. To understand ARDS, you may also want to read about how the lungs work.
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