Pulmonary Edema

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.

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AMBULATORY CARE:

Pulmonary edema

is a buildup of fluid in the alveoli (air sacs) of your lungs. The fluid may make it hard for you to breathe. Pulmonary edema may be life-threatening if your body is not able to get the oxygen it needs.

Common signs and symptoms of pulmonary edema:

• A fever
• Wheezing, trouble breathing, or faster breathing than usual
• Chest discomfort or heaviness
• Coughing up pink, foamy sputum (spit)
• Fatigue or feeling the need to rest often
• Pale or blue nail beds and lips
• Fast heart rate or sweating for no known reason
• Anxiety

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You are breathing very fast, sweating, and feel confused.
• You have chest pain or trouble breathing that gets worse.

Seek immediate care if:

• Your heart feels like it skips a beat or flutters.
• You urinate very little or not at all.
• Your lips and nail beds are pale or blue.

Call your doctor or pulmonologist if:

• You have a fever.
• You gain weight for no known reason.
• You urinate more than usual.
• You have new or increased swelling in your legs or feet.
• You hear new or increased wheezing when you breathe.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment

will depend on what caused your pulmonary edema. If high altitude caused your pulmonary edema, your symptoms may go away when you go to a lower altitude. You may also need any of the following:

• Medicines may be given to remove extra fluid from around your lungs or decrease your blood pressure. Heart medicines may also be given to make your heartbeat stronger or more regular.
• Breathing support may help you breathe better and decrease the pressure in your lungs. You may need extra oxygen. You may also need to use a machine, such as a noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation (NPPV) or a ventilator. An NPPV is a machine that helps your lungs fill with air. A ventilator is a machine that can breathe for you if you cannot breathe well on your own.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• furosemide
• Lasix
• Bumex
• Edecrin
• Sodium Edecrin

View more treatment options

Manage or prevent pulmonary edema:

• Limit liquids as directed. Follow your healthcare provider's directions about how much liquid you should drink each day. Too much liquid can increase your risk for fluid buildup.
• Weigh yourself daily. Weigh yourself at the same time every morning after you urinate, but before you eat. Weight gain can be a sign of extra fluid in your body.
• Rest as needed. Return to activities slowly, and do more each day. You may have trouble breathing when you are lying down. Use foam wedges or elevate the head of your bed. This may help you breathe easier while you are resting or sleeping. Use a device that will tilt your whole body, or bend your body at the waist. The device should not bend your body at the upper back or neck.
• Eat a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Healthy foods may decrease your symptoms and help you have more energy. Ask if you need to eat low-salt or low-fat foods.
• Limit or do not drink alcohol. You will need to limit the alcohol you drink, or avoid alcohol completely. Alcohol can worsen your symptoms and increase your blood pressure. If you have heart failure, alcohol can make it worse.
• Do not smoke cigarettes or use drugs. These can cause blood vessel and brain damage. Ask your provider for information if you currently use cigarettes or drugs and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your provider before you use these products.
• Climb to high altitudes slowly. Go slowly to allow your body to get used to a higher altitude. Ask your healthcare provider about the symptoms of high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). Ask what to do if you have these symptoms.

Follow up with your doctor or pulmonologist in 7 to 10 days, or as directed:

You may need to return for more tests. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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