The presence of an excessive amount of fluid in the lungs, also known as pulmonary edema, is a very serious condition and requires immediate medical attention. The lungs are used by the body to take in and process oxygen while exhaling carbon dioxide. The lungs are made up of tiny sacs that fill up with the air that we breathe. These tiny sacs are known as alveoli. These alveoli are surrounded by a number of tiny veins that help transport blood to and from these sacs. However, when the heart begins to fail, there is a build up of pressure in these veins. As a result, the veins start leaking, causing some amount of fluid to enter the alveoli. When this happens, the fluid content in the alveoli prevents it from accommodating the optimum amounts of oxygen. As the condition continues to progress and the fluid starts to build up even further, the amount of oxygen can be accommodated continues to reduce - resulting in the shortness of breath. Some of the other possible causes of excessive fluid build up in the lungs include infections such as pneumonia or even the inhalation of poisonous gasses. Some of the more common symptoms when affected by the condition include severe fatigue, malaise and weakness as well as anxiety and an excessive amount of sweating. Some people may also start to grunt a little whenever they breathe as a result of the additional and conscious effort it will take to breathe. Certain body postures and positions, such as lying down, are likely to aggravate the condition even further.
If the condition, if not cared for promptly and effectively, it can result in severe and fatal consequences. It is therefore essential that you admit the affected individual to your nearest hospital. The fact that the exact cause of the condition will decide the most effective treatment option, early diagnosis is almost imperative as diagnosis cannot be effectively done at home. Like with any medical condition, however, there is always a little bit of adaptation to your lifestyle that will help reduce the impact the condition has on your overall quality of life. For example, you should avoid any excessive consumption of alcohol, smoking as well as reduce the amount of salt you consume. Increase your intake of vegetables and fruits and start to follow a consistent exercise regime in order to prevent the development of any heart disorders - something which is the most common cause of pulmonary edema.
answered by G M