Definition:
Pulmonary edema occurs when excess fluid collects in the tissues and air spaces of the lungs. The fluid interferes with gas exchange, thus causing a person to be short of breath and to possibly have wheezing and a persistent cough. Pulmonary edema may result from diseases of the heart or may occur as complications of other illnesses such as widespread viral or other infections, drug toxicity, exposure to high altitudes, kidney failure, or hemorrhagic shock.
See also: Pulmonary Edema from A.D.A.M.
Source: ~NIH~
Updated: 1-17-2006
Pulmonary edema occurs when excess fluid collects in the tissues and air spaces of the lungs. The fluid interferes with gas exchange, thus causing a person to be short of breath and to possibly have wheezing and a persistent cough. Pulmonary edema may result from diseases of the heart or may occur as complications of other illnesses such as widespread viral or other infections, drug toxicity, exposure to high altitudes, kidney failure, or hemorrhagic shock.
See also: Pulmonary Edema from A.D.A.M.
Source: ~NIH~
Updated: 1-17-2006
Also Known As: Lung/pulmonary congestion; Lung water
