Pulmonary Edema

Fluid in the lung is a general expression to describe the abnormal buildup of fluid in the lungs or in the space that surrounds them, which makes breathing difficult. It may correspond to a pleural effusion or to pulmonary edema.

Common symptoms: shortness of breath that worsens when lying down, rapid breathing, cough, a feeling of tightness in the chest, and fatigue.

Common causes: heart problems, infections, diseases of the lungs or of other organs.

Which specialist treats it? The pulmonologist studies respiratory conditions and, depending on the origin, the cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon may get involved. Recently developed difficulty breathing warrants a prompt medical evaluation to identify its cause.