Pulmonary Edema

Pulmonary Edema is a condition caused by abnormal accumulation of fluid in the lungs. This fluid builds up in air sacs, making it difficult to breathe. “It may cause respiratory failure, lead by impaired gas exchange“, says Dr S C Baluja Consultant Internal Medicine, Mayom Hospital.

Symptoms and Signs

Coughing up blood

Wheezing or gasping for breath

Anxiety or restlessness

Pale skin

Excessive sweating

Coughing up pink frothy sputum

Palpitation (irregular heartbeat)

Chest pain

Causes

Our lungs contain small, elastic air sacs called alveoli. Normally, these air sacs take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide without any difficulty. But in case of Pulmonary Edema, alveoli get filled with fluid in place of air. This prevents oxygen from getting absorbed into our blood stream.

A number of conditions can cause fluid accumulation in lungs.

Cardiogenic (heart related) causes:

Hypertensive crisis (High blood pressure)

Congestive heart failure

Severe heart attack with left ventricular failure

Severe arrhythmias (too fast/slow heartbeat)

Non-cardiogenic causes:

Aspirin overdose

Major lung injury

Inhalation of poisonous gas

Severe lung infection

High altitude exposure

Narrowed arteries that carry blood to kidneys

Severe seizures

Treatment

Cases of Pulmonary Edema require immediate medical attention. At Mayom Hospital, almost all patients are examined in the emergency room.

Patients are given oxygen through tiny plastic tubes placed in the nose, or a face mask is used.

If patients are unable to breathe on their own, a breathing tube connected to a ventilator is inserted into the windpipe (trachea).

Medicines are given to patients to get rid of excess fluid from the body (for e.g. Diuretics)

Prevention

Take all your medicines as directed by the doctor in case you have a disease that can lead to a weakened heart muscle or pulmonary edema.

Follow a healthy diet that is low in fat and salt, and maintain an ideal body weight for your height and age.

Emergency Numbers of Mayom Hospital: http://www.customercarenumber.co.in/medical-services/hospitals/mayom-hospital-gurgaon-contact-number.html