Overview
Acute pulmonary oedema is a medical emergency. It is most often caused by heart problems.
Symptoms
- Severe shortness of breath, worse when lying flat
- Coughing up frothy, pink-tinged sputum
- Wheezing or gurgling breathing
- Sweating and anxiety
- Swelling of the legs
Causes and risk factors
Causes include heart failure, heart attack, heart valve disease, kidney failure, high altitude and severe infection.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis uses examination, chest X-ray, ECG, echocardiography and blood tests.
Treatment
Treatment includes oxygen, diuretics, medicines to support the heart and treating the cause.
When to see a doctor
Seek emergency care for sudden severe breathlessness.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
