The tentative diagnosis made by medical history and observation is usually confirmed by tapping and listening to the lungs. The chest radiograph, which is usually obtained, also shows typical changes that vary according to severity.
An ECG and heart ultrasound (echocardiography) can be used to obtain information about any underlying heart disease and to assess the pressure conditions in the lungs and vessels. A blood gas analysis with determination of oxygen and carbon dioxide content in the blood from the earlobe or wrist can be used to find out how pronounced the breathing disorder is.
What is the treatment for pulmonary edema?
The treatment of the potentially life-threatening clinical picture belongs in any case in medical hands in the hospital. The first step is to make it easier for the affected person to breathe. To do this, the patient is placed in an upright position with the upper body and legs hanging low to relieve the strain on the heart, and oxygen is administered by nasal tube or face mask.
In very severe cases, the patient must be temporarily artificially ventilated. Sometimes secretions are aspirated from the bronchi through the nose. The patient may be given painkillers; if he is very agitated, sedatives may be given. However, these can suppress not only anxiety but also breathing, which is why close monitoring is necessary.
Further therapy depends on the cause of the pulmonary edema. For example, in the case of left-sided cardiac insufficiency, drugs are given to reduce the strain on the heart (nitroglycerin and diuretics). If toxins or allergies are the triggers, a cortisone preparation is given, and dialysis is indicated if the kidneys are weak.
What is the prognosis?
The course of pulmonary edema itself is generally good with appropriate, prompt treatment. Rarely, pneumonia develops. However, the overall prognosis for the affected individual depends on the underlying disease.
