Facts About Pulmonary Edema Not Caused by Heart Problems

Pulmonary edema is a condition in which fluid builds up in either one or both lungs. The small sacs in which gas exchange occurs becomes saturated with this fluid and as a result, the patient experiences difficulty breathing. The condition can either be chronic, or acute, meaning of sudden onset. Those experiencing this often just assume that a heart condition, disorder or disease is to blame, but this isn't entirely true. There are cases of pulmonary edema not caused by heart problems.

What Are the Alternate Causes of Pulmonary Edema?

Various systems throughout the body and environmental factors can play a role in the development of this condition. External factors such as excessive smoke inhalation, from a burning structure for example, can contribute to excessive fluid in the lungs, as can some toxic substances. Non-cardiac pulmonary edema may also be caused by an adverse reaction to medications and drugs, legal and illegal. Kidney disease, infections of the lungs, being in a physiological state of shock and traumatic injury to the organ are also some of the more common causes of the condition that are not related to cardiac function. Exercising in an extreme climate, such as high altitude can cause this.

How Can Your Physician Tell the Difference?

Even if the pulmonary edema is not caused by heart problems, it still constitutes a medical emergency. Therefore, diagnostic measures are taken fairly quickly if this condition is suspected. The first initial test usually includes the arterial blood gas, or ABG, and the chest x-ray to confirm the diagnosis. Although this may not reveal the nature of the problem, the physician will often run cardiac tests to check the functioning of the heart. This can include an electrocardiogram and echocardiogram for example, which may potentially rule out a heart condition. Many times, more tests will still be needed to determine the cause though. These tests may consist of more x-rays and blood tests, but other s may be included.

How is it Treated?

Edema in the lungs not caused by heart problems can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the precipitating factor. However, the first step in treating this condition is almost always the administration of oxygen, no matter the cause. Other interventions include medications, such as diuretics and drugs used to lower or increase the blood pressure. In some cases, narcotics like morphine may be administered. Due to the mechanism in which morphine works in the respiratory system, this drug may not be used unless the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Other medications may include what is called afterload reducers. These drugs may assist by dilating the peripheral vessels.

This is only meant to serve as a guide for individuals suffering from pulmonary edema unrelated to heart disease. The information contained here is not intended to replace medical advice.

Bibliography

Pulmonary Edema. Mayo Clinic. 26, June 2010. Viewed 2, December 2010. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pulmonary-edema/DS00412