Pulmonary edema is the buildup of fluid in the lungs, usually
resulting from the heart's inability to pump blood through the body
effectively. It can be caused by heart or kidney failure, poisoning, widespread
infection, stroke, or near-drowning.
Symptoms of pulmonary edema include difficulty breathing,
restlessness, shortness of breath that is worse when lying down, rapid heart
rate, and a cough that sometimes produces foamy pink fluid.
Although pulmonary edema can be a life-threatening condition, it is
treatable, depending upon the cause. Treatment may include oxygen given through
the nose or a face mask. In severe cases, relief may require a breathing tube
placed into the windpipe (intubation) and use of a breathing machine
(ventilator). Medications to strengthen the heart muscle or to relieve the
pressure on the heart may also be given as needed.
