​Pulmonary Edema​

Pulmonary Oedema is caused by a build-up of excessive fluid in the lungs, which leads to shortness of breath. It is mainly caused by an underlying heart condition. When the heart is unable to pump normally, the pressure in the blood vessels increases and fluid gets pushed into the lungs. The function of the lungs gets affected, which leads to shortness of breath. 

Causes of pulmonary oedema include:

• Severe arrhythmia (irregular heart beat)
  

• Cardiomyopathy or damage to the heart muscles
  

• High blood pressure (or hypertension) which can damage the heart muscles
  

• Living at or travel to high altitudes 
  

• Decreased kidney function or renal failure 
  

• Certain types of medications
  

• Pneumonia 
  

• Lung damage caused by systemic infection or sepsis
  

• Severe seizures
  

• Brain haemorrhage
  

• Inhaling excessive smoke (e.g. due to fire)
  

• Inhaling water (such as a near drowning experience)
  

• Drug overdose
  

• Any type of major injury that causes trauma to the chest wall

You may develop pulmonary oedema suddenly, which is known as acute pulmonary oedema. This type of sudden onset is a medical emergency, and you must seek assistance immediately as it may prove to be fatal. Immediate treatment to fix the underlying cause can rectify the problem.

Pulmonary oedema may also be chronic which can be treated with medications and appropriate therapy.​​

When to seek expert advise

If you are experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath or blood in your sputum, you may be suffering from pulmonary oedema. It is important to seek medical attention immediately to figure out the exact cause. Your physician can help you avoid pain and unnecessary complications. It is advisable not to drive yourself to the hospital. If you need an ambulance call 24/7 Emergency and Acute Care Services​, at The Aga Khan University Hospital.

A detailed examination by a medical specialist at the Section of Pulmonology and Critical Care​ at The Aga Khan University Hospital will help in providing a detailed diagnosis.