How to Identify Pulmonary Edema

Pulmonary edema is a condition that is caused by excess fluid in the lungs. It affects both the lungs and the heart and afflicts mostly middle aged men and women. Risks increase with pre-existing conditions of heart disorders, kidney problems, and pneumonia. When fluid builds up in the lungs, it may interfere with oxygen intake and function, which affects other body functions as well. Pulmonary edema may lead to complications such as heart attack, heart rhythm problems and even shock. Prescription medications or drugs may also produce complications, which is why it is so important to understand and be able to identify symptoms of pulmonary edema, so that it may be addressed.

Instructions

• 1

  Feelings of extreme and sudden shortness of breath are often the first indication that something is not quite right with the body. In some cases, sensations of shortness of breath may occur at night while sleeping and grow worse in a short period of time. Such a symptom will often lead to rapid breathing, which may lead to dizziness or hyperventilation.

• 2

  Feeling nervous or anxious is also a symptom of pulmonary edema, which is often made worse by worrying.

• 3

  Sweating is another symptom of the condition, which may or may not be accompanied by pale features and a sense of intense chills or cold.

• 4

  Feeling weak or fatigued is often another indication that lung capacity has been compromised. This may also cause a bluish tingle to nail beds and lips.

• 5

  Coughing is common with pulmonary edema. While the cough may be dry and ineffective at first, eventually, a frothy or even bloody sputum may be noticed.