Pulmonary Edema: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment – An Integrative Review

Pulmonary edema is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the lungs’ alveolar spaces, leading to impaired gas exchange and respiratory distress. It commonly results from heart failure but can also arise due to non-cardiogenic causes such as acute respiratory distress syndrome, infections, or high-altitude exposure. Symptoms typically include shortness of breath, cough, and fatigue, which can rapidly worsen in acute cases. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent severe complications, including respiratory failure. Understanding its pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management is vital for improving patient outcomes and reducing morbidity and mortality. This literature review was conducted using scientific publications found in the following databases: Virtual Health Library (BVS), Public Medline (PubMed), CAPES Periodical Portal, and Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), with no time restriction. The official websites of the Ministry of Health and gray literature were also consulted. Pulmonary edema is a serious condition marked by fluid buildup in the lungs, impairing gas exchange and causing respiratory distress. Its pathophysiology is either cardiogenic, due to increased hydrostatic pressure, or non-cardiogenic, related to increased capillary permeability from inflammation or injury. Early recognition of symptoms, risk factors, and accurate diagnosis are vital for effective treatment. Diagnostic methods include chest imaging, echocardiography, and lab tests. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve oxygen, diuretics, vasodilators, or mechanical ventilation. Despite medical advances, delayed diagnosis increases morbidity and mortality, highlighting the need for prompt, multidisciplinary care to improve outcomes.