Pulmonary edema Health Article

Signs and tests

The health care provider will perform a physical exam and use a stethoscope to listen to the lungs and heart. The following may be detected:

• Crackles in the lungs, called rales
• Abnormal heart sounds
• Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
• Pale or blue skin color (pallor or cyanosis)
• Rapid breathing (tachypnea)

Possible tests include:

• Complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia and reduced red cell count
• Other blood tests to measure blood chemistries and kidney function
• Blood oxygen levels (oximetry or arterial blood gases) -- low in patients with pulmonary edema
• Chest x-ray may reveal fluid in or around the lung space or an enlarged heart
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect abnormal heart rhythm or evidence of a heart attack
• Ultrasound of the heart (echocardiogram) to see if there is a weak heart muscle, leaky or narrow heart valves, or fluid surrounding the heart

Treatment

Oxygen is given through a face mask or tiny plastic tubes (prongs) placed in the nose. A breathing tube may be placed into the windpipe (trachea). A breathing machine (ventilator) may be needed.

The cause of the edema should be rapidly identified and treated. For example, if a heart attack has caused the condition, the heart must be treated and stabilized.

Water pills (diuretics) such as furosemide (Lasix) may be given to help excess water leave the body. Medications to strengthen the heart muscle, control its rhythm, or to relieve pressure on the heart, may also be given.

Expectations (prognosis)

Some patients may need to use a breathing machine for a long time, which may lead to damage to lung tissue.

Kidney failure and damage to other major organs may occur if blood and oxygen flow are not restored promptly. If not treated, this condition can be fatal.

Complications

Some patients may need to use a breathing machine for a long time. If not treated, this condition can be fatal.

Calling your health care provider

Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you have breathing problems.

Prevention

If you have a disease that can lead to pulmonary edema or a weakened heart muscle, take all prescription medications as instructed. Following a healthy diet, one low in salt and fat, can significantly reduce the risk of developing this condition.