What Causes Fluid in the Lungs?

Pulmonary Edema

What does fluid in the lungs mean? When an abnormal amount of fluid collects in the lungs, it may cause inflammation that interferes with normal lung function and breathing. Doctors may also refer to this condition as fluid in the lungs or pulmonary edema.

Causes of fluid in the lungs Fluid in the lungs often results from heart failure and other heart diseases. When heart failure occurs, blood vessels that carry blood to the lungs are put under additional pressure. These blood vessels will begin to leak and fluid begins to flow into the alveoli (the tiny sacs that contain air in the lungs). Naturally, this causes shortness of breath because it's harder for the lungs to get the oxygen they need to supply the rest of the body.

Fluid in the lungs may also be caused by damage from a severe lung infection like pneumonia, by inhaling toxic gases. or in some cases, living in high altitudes where the air is thin.

Kidney failure can also be a cause of fluid in the lungs.

Fluid in the lungs can be life threatening if it comes on quickly and is not treated.

Symptoms of fluid in the lungs Often, symptoms of fluid in the lungs or pulmonary edema are relatively obvious. You experience rapid breathing, pale skin, unusual sweating, coughing, anxiety, restlessness, weakness and fatigue. These may occur even when you're lying down and at complete rest, but they'll probably be especially obvious during exertion or exercise.

As more fluid builds in the lungs, more severe symptoms may present themselves, including a rapid heart rate, abnormal heart sounds, and coughing up blood. The skin may even take on a bluish tint (a classic sign of oxygen deprivation). Because of shortness of breath, you may have trouble speaking more than a few words at a time.

Treatment for fluid in the lungs Treatment depends on the cause and is focused on reducing or eliminating the excess fluid.

If a heart disorder has caused the fluid build up, your doctor will make it a priority to treat the heart first. Such treatment may include

concentrated doses of oxygen. This will help relieve shortness of breath,
administration of certain drugs, including diuretics, morphine, and nitroglycerin, It's important for you to take the medications on time and as directed for them to be effective.
when pulmonary edema is severe, a breathing machine may become necessary.

If pulmonary edema is not treated, it can increase pressure in the pulmonary artery and result in failure of the right ventricle of the heart. This can cause disorders and complications in other parts of the body, including

swelling in the legs (this is known simply as edema),
abdominal swelling (also known as ascites),
congestion and swelling of the liver,
buildup of fluid in the membranes that surround your lungs. This condition is known medically as pleural effusion.

Lifestyle is an important factor in treating pulmonary edema. Stick to low sodium foods, keep alcohol consumption to a minimum, avoid smoking, and make sure your diet includes plenty of vegetables. Maintaining a normal blood pressure range also helps, as does a low blood cholesterol level.

Talk to your doctor about an exercise program.

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