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Alternative names Return to top
Lung/pulmonary congestion; Lung waterDefinition Return to top
Pulmonary edema involves fluid accumulation and swelling in the lungs.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Pulmonary edema is usually caused by heart failure that results in increased pressure in the pulmonary (lung) veins. However, problems within the lungs themselves can also result in fluid accumulation.
Pulmonary edema can be a complication of a heart attack, leaking or narrowed heart valves (mitral or aortic valves), or any disease of the heart that either results in weakening and/or stiffening of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy). The failing heart transmits its increased pressure to the lung veins. As pressure in the lung veins rises, fluid is pushed into the air spaces (alveoli). This fluid then becomes a barrier to normal oxygen exchange, resulting in shortness of breath.
Pulmonary edema can also be caused by direct lung injury from toxins including heat and poisonous gas, severe infection, or an excess of body fluid as seen in kidney failure.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
During a physical exam, the provider may identify the following signs:
Possible tests include:
Treatment Return to top
Oxygen is given via nasal prongs or a face mask. Intubation (breathing tube placed into the windpipe) and use of a breathing machine (ventilator) may be needed.
Underlying causes must be rapidly identified and treated. For example, if a heart attack has caused the condition, the heart must be treated and stabilized.
Medications to accelerate water excretion from the body via the urine (diuretics) are given. One common diuretic is furosemide (Lasix). Other medications to strengthen the heart muscle or to relieve the pressure on the heart may also be given as needed.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Although pulmonary edema can be a life-threatening condition, it is often readily treatable. Prognosis, however, depends upon the underlying disease.Complications Return to top
The patient may require long-term dependence on a breathing machine (ventilator).
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Go to the emergency room or call 911 if conditions suggesting pulmonary edema occur, particularly if breathing is difficult.
Prevention Return to top
In patients with known diseases that can lead to pulmonary edema, strict compliance with taking medications in a timely manner and following an appropriate diet (usually, low in salt) can significantly decrease one's risk. Update Date: 7/6/2004 Updated by: Seth Keller, M.D., Division of Cardiology and Electrophysiology at New York Hospital Center of Queens, Flushing, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |