Pulmonary Edema

Pulmonary edema is an abnormal buildup of fluid within the tissues of the lung.

What is going on in the body?

Fluid can build up in the lungs for many reasons. This fluid makes it difficult for the lungs to give oxygen to the blood. The low oxygen in the blood and the fluid itself cause symptoms.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Pulmonary edema has many causes, including:

What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

Pulmonary edema may cause:

A person may also have symptoms from the underlying cause of the pulmonary edema.

How is the condition diagnosed?

The history and physical exam usually make a healthcare provider suspicious. A chest x-ray usually shows the extra fluid in the lungs. Further tests may be needed to figure out the cause of the lung edema. These may include blood tests or further x-ray tests, such as a pulmonary ventilation scan and a pulmonary perfusion scan.

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Many cases of pulmonary edema are unavoidable. Persons with heart problems should take medications as prescribed. Narcotics should not be abused. Those who are mountain climbing should avoid going beyond 8,000 feet above sea level unless they are experienced or are with a guide.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Severe pulmonary edema can lead to death. Most of the long-term effects are related to the cause of the pulmonary edema. For example, those with severe heart disease may be unable to perform daily activities without getting tired or having shortness of breath. On the other hand, edema from an infection that is successfully treated often causes no long-term effects.

What are the risks to others?

Lung edema is not contagious and does not pose any risk to others.

What are the treatments for the condition?

A person with lung edema is usually given oxygen. If the edema is severe, the person may need to be put on a ventilator, or artificial breathing machine. Other treatments depend on the underlying cause. For example, diuretic medications, or "fluid pills," may be given to draw fluid out of the lungs. Antibiotics are given if a bacterial infection is the cause.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Persons who require a ventilator may rarely develop an infection or damage to the lungs from the machine. All medications have side effects. Diuretics may cause allergic reactions and salt imbalances. Antibiotics also may cause allergic reactions, stomach upset, and other side effects. Other side effects depend on the medications used.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

If the underlying cause of the pulmonary edema is corrected, the person gets better and can return to normal activities. Lifelong treatment may be needed to prevent future episodes of pulmonary edema, such as in a person with a weakened heart.

How is the condition monitored?

Symptoms are monitored and follow-up physical exams are needed. Blood tests, the amount of urine produced, and chest x-rays may also be used for monitoring.

Author:Adam Brochert, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Smith, Mary Ellen, BS
Edit Date:05/09/00
Reviewer:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:09/04/01

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