Lungs (fluid in)

Table of Contents

Other names

Pulmonary edema
Fluid buildup in lungs
Water in the lungs
Congestive lung condition

Synopsis

Fluid in the lungs, medically known as pulmonary edema, refers to the accumulation of fluid in the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs, which interferes with normal oxygen exchange. This condition can be acute (developing suddenly and requiring emergency care) or chronic (developing gradually), and it ranges in severity from mild shortness of breath to life-threatening respiratory failure.

Two primary types of pulmonary edema:

  1. Cardiogenic (heart-related):

    • Most commonly due to congestive heart failure, where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently, leading to pressure buildup and fluid leakage into the lungs.

  2. Non-cardiogenic (non-heart-related):

    • Caused by injury to lung tissue or inflammation, such as in pneumonia, sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), kidney failure, smoke inhalation, or high-altitude exposure.

Symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath (especially when lying down)

  • Rapid, shallow breathing

  • Coughing up pink, frothy sputum

  • Wheezing or gasping

  • Fatigue or confusion

  • Cold, clammy skin

  • Chest pain (if heart-related)

When to see a doctor:
Pulmonary edema is a medical emergency when it causes severe breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, or frothy sputum. Prompt evaluation is needed to determine the cause and administer oxygen, diuretics, heart medications, or mechanical ventilation, if necessary.

Natural Remedies

Elevate the Head While Sleeping: Reduces nighttime shortness of breath.

Reduce Sodium Intake: Helps lower fluid retention.

Support Heart Health: Through lifestyle changes if heart-related.

Practice Deep Breathing Exercises: Improves oxygenation and lung function.

Avoid Smoking or Environmental Irritants: Reduces lung inflammation.