What is pulmonary edema?

Pulmonary edema refers specifically to the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, which can significantly impair gas exchange and lead to respiratory distress. This condition typically occurs when the heart cannot pump efficiently, causing increased pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs, resulting in fluid leakage into the alveoli. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, a feeling of suffocation, and coughing up frothy or pink-tinged sputum. Recognizing pulmonary edema is essential for timely intervention and treatment in patients experiencing respiratory or cardiac issues.

The other choices refer to different conditions: excess air in the lungs is more aligned with pneumothorax or conditions like hyperinflation, fluid in the stomach refers to gastrointestinal issues, and fluid around the heart describes pericardial effusion. Each of these choices represents distinct medical situations, further emphasizing that fluid in the lungs is a specific and critical concern within emergency medical contexts.