Pulmonary edema (fluid build-up in the lungs)

Description Fluid in the air sa...

Description

Fluid in the air sacs (alveoli) of the lung. The fluid moves from the small blood vessels in the lung (capillaries) into the air sacs when there is damage to the lung, or if there is a backup of pressure from the heart. This fluid (edema) in the air sacs prevents normal oxygen exchange and if left untreated can be lethal. Common causes include: heart failure, heart attack, heart valve dysfunction, pneumonia, toxins, smoke inhalation (from a fire), kidney failure, high altitude exposure, or adverse drug reactions.

Symptoms

Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, grunting or gurgling sounds with breathing, wheezing, increased shortness of breath with lying down (orthopnea), cough, anxiety, restlessness, excessive sweating.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam with a stethoscope will be performed. A chest X-ray shows the fluid in the lungs. Other tests may include blood tests or an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) to identify the cause.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Troponin, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray

Other Specific Tests: Arterial blood gas (ABG), Echocardiogram, Brain natriuretic peptide.

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Pulmonology, Family Practice, Pediatric Cardiology, Pediatric Pulmonology

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to supply oxygen, remove the fluid build-up, and reverse the cause of the fluid. Oxygen is given through a face mask or through nasal "prongs." In severe cases breathing may require use of a ventilator until the condition improves. Medications to reduce the fluid in the lungs include: diuretics and blood pressure control. The cause of the fluid buildup should be rapidly identified and treated.