Pulmonary edema history and symptoms
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Farnaz Khalighinejad, MD [2]
Overview
The history of a patient with pulmonary edema varies according to the underlying cause. The most common symptom of pulmonary edema is shortness of breath (dyspnea). Depending on etiology, it may occur acute or has gradual onset. When pulmonary edema is due to an acute myocardial infarction chest pain is presenting symptom.
History and Symptoms
History
Patients with pulmonary edema may have a positive history of:[1]
Past medical history:
Surgical history:
Drug history:
Symptoms
Common Symptoms
Less Common Symptoms
Symptoms could be varied depending on underlying disorder including:
Acute Pulmonary Edema
- Anxiety, restlessness
- Dyspnea
- Cough, particularly coughing up blood or bloody froth
- Excessive sweating or diaphoresis
- Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea
- Grunting or gurgling sounds with breathing
- Pale or blue skin
- Blue or cyanotic lips
- Shortness of breath
- Orthopnea
- Wheezing
Chronic Pulmonary Edema
If pulmonary edema develops gradually, there may be symptoms of fluid overload[1]
- Ankle or pedal edema
- Nocturia
- Orthopnea
- Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea
- Weight gain
References
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