What is Pulmonary Edema?
Pulmonary edema happens when fluid builds up in the air pockets (alveoli) of the lungs. This fluid impairs the oxygen/carbon dioxide exchange process described in my emphysema article. Pulmonary edema usually occurs as a result of heart problems particularly heart failure where blood pressure increases in the lungs and fluid pushed into the air pockets in the lungs.
The Causes of Pulmonary Edema
Conditions such as pneumonia can also result in pulmonary edema, as well as direct physical injury to the lung. Exercising at very high altitudes can also cause pulmonary edema (www.nlm.nih.gov). Pulmonary edema may appear as a side effect of a heart attack, leaking or narrow heart valves, or any other disease of the heart (such as cadiomyopathy) that results in the weakening or stiffening of the heart muscle.
Other conditions that may result in pulmonary edema include:
Symptoms
There is a long list of symptoms associated with pulmonary edema including (this list compiled from www.nlm.nih.gov and www.mayoclinic.com):
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
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