Possible Causes of Fluid on the Lungs

Possible Causes of Fluid on the Lungs
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Fluid in the lungs, also referred to as pulmonary edema, is characterized by excessive fluid accumulating in the lungs. Patients find it difficult to breath because the fluid accumulates in the many air sacs located in the lungs. There are many causes of fluid in the lungs. All of which require a medical evaluation. When pulmonary edema is sudden, emergency medical attention is necessary. There are several different causes of fluid on the lungs.

Heart Valve Problems

In conditions, such as aortic valve disease or mitral valve disease, these valves either do not close completely or do not open wide enough. This results in blood flowing backward through the valve. Pressure builds up in the left ventricle, when the valves are narrowed, resulting in the left ventricle persistently having to work harder every time the heart contracts. As this ventricle works harder, it becomes thicker, resulting in more stress on the coronary arteries. This increase in pressure goes to the pulmonary veins, after the left atrium, resulting in fluid accumulating in the lungs. In addition to fluid building up in the lungs, patients can experience:

  • Trouble catching breath and/or shortness of breath
  • Chest discomfort
  • Abdominal, feet, or ankle swelling
  • Dizziness or weakness
  • Palpitations
  • Rapid weight gain

The type of heart valve problem, and its severity, will ultimately determine the treatment. Medications are commonly used, as well as surgery and other medical procedures.

Drug Reactions

Several different drugs and medications can cause this issue. Some of these drugs and medications include:

  • B-adrenergic agonists
  • Chlordiazepoxide
  • Cytarabine
  • Gemcitabine
  • Hydrochlorothiazide
  • Mitomycin
  • Sulfasalazine
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Vinca alkaloids
  • Cocaine
  • Ethiodized oil
  • Heroin
  • Methadone
  • Phenothiazines
  • Protamine
  • Tocolytic agents
  • Tumor necrosis factor

In many cases, stopping using these drugs will greatly alleviate the fluid accumulation. However, patients may require additional medical intervention depending on the severity of their symptoms.

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

This condition, also referred to as ARDS, prevents adequate oxygen from reaching the blood. It is a life-threatening lung condition that causes fluid in the lungs. Trauma, aspiration, pneumonia, inhaling chemicals, and septic shock can cause this condition. In addition to fluid accumulating in the lungs, patients often experience:

  • Organ failure
  • Shortness of breath
  • Rapid and labored breathing
  • Low blood pressure

This condition requires immediate medical condition, and patients need to receive treatment in an intensive care unit. Treating the underlying cause and providing breathing support are the goals of treatment. This can include reducing inflammation, treating infections, and removing fluid from the lungs.

Other Possible Causes

Several other medical conditions can cause fluid in the lungs. These include:

  • Lung infections
  • Kidney disease
  • High altitudes
  • Exposure to certain toxins
  • Smoke inhalation
  • High blood pressure
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Cardiomyopathy

Resources

MayoClinic.com. (2010). Pulmonary Edema. Retrieved on August 21, 2010 from MayoClinic.com: https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pulmonary-edema/DS00412

eCureMe. (2003). Fluid in the Lungs. Retrieved on August 21, 2010 from eCureMe: https://www.ecureme.com/emyhealth/data/fluid_in_the_lungs.asp