A medical condition marked by the buildup of fluid in tiny air sacs within the lungs, called alveoli, making breathing difficult. It can result from heart failure, lung injury, or other health issue.
Symptoms
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
- Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND): Sudden onset of severe shortness of breath at night.
- Cough, which is frothy or pink-tinged due to blood-tinged sputum.
- Rapid breathing (tachypnea)
- Increased heart rate (tachycardia).
- Anxiety, restlessness, or confusion in severe cases.
Causes
- Heart failure: Heart’s inability to pump blood efficiently leads to fluid backup in the lungs.
- Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS): Lung injury from conditions like pneumonia, sepsis, or trauma can cause inflammation and fluid leakage into the lungs.
- High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE): Occurs at high altitudes due to reduced oxygen levels and increased pulmonary artery pressure.
- Inhalation of toxic gases: Chemical irritants or near-drowning incidents can damage lung tissue and cause fluid accumulation.
- Kidney failure: Impaired kidney function can lead to fluid retention and subsequent pulmonary edema.
Diagnosis
- Physical examination
- Chest X-ray
- Echocardiogram
- Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis: Helps evaluate oxygenation and acid-base status.
- Blood tests: Including electrolyte levels, renal function tests, and cardiac biomarkers (e.g., B-type natriuretic peptide, or BNP).
Treatment
- Medications
- Oxygen therapy: Supplemental oxygen to improve oxygenation and relieve respiratory distress.
- Positive pressure ventilation: Non-invasive or invasive mechanical ventilation in severe cases to support breathing and improve oxygenation.
- Treatment of underlying cause: Addressing heart failure, infection, or other precipitating factors.
Prevention
- Control conditions like high blood pressure and heart failure to prevent fluid buildup in the lungs.
- Adjust to high altitudes slowly to avoid altitude-related pulmonary edema.
- Take precautions to avoid inhaling harmful substances and practice water safety to prevent lung damage and pulmonary edema.
Pulmonary edema is a condition where fluid builds up in the lungs, making it hard to breathe. It’s often caused by heart problems or lung injuries. Treatment involves oxygen therapy and medications to remove excess fluid. Early recognition and treatment are important for better outcomes. Preventing triggers and managing underlying conditions can help reduce the risk of pulmonary edema.
