What are the causes of non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema?

Generally, non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema may be caused by factors such as hypoxia in high-altitude environments, rapid intravenous infusion, acute respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary infection, or inhalation of irritating gases. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Hypoxia in high-altitude environments: Rapid entry into high-altitude areas leads to pulmonary vasoconstriction and increased permeability due to hypoxia, causing pulmonary edema accompanied by dyspnea and cyanosis. Immediate transfer to a lower altitude area is necessary, along with oxygen administration to improve hypoxia. Medications such as nifedipine tablets, aminophylline tablets, and dexamethasone tablets may be taken as directed by a physician to alleviate symptoms.

2. Rapid intravenous infusion: Infusing large volumes of fluid over a short period abruptly increases circulating blood volume, raising pulmonary vascular pressure and causing pulmonary edema, often accompanied by chest tightness and cough. The infusion rate should be slowed or stopped immediately, and sitting upright can help reduce venous return. Medications such as furosemide injection, nitroglycerin injection, and sodium nitroprusside injection may be used as directed to reduce cardiac workload.

3. Acute respiratory distress syndrome: Severe infections or trauma can damage the alveolar capillary membrane, leading to pulmonary edema accompanied by refractory hypoxemia. Patients require mechanical ventilation to assist breathing and may receive medications such as methylprednisolone sodium succinate for injection, cefoperazone sodium and sulbactam sodium for injection, and ulinastatin injection to suppress inflammation and improve lung function as directed by a physician.

4. Pulmonary infection: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens can trigger lung inflammation, increasing alveolar exudate and leading to pulmonary edema, often accompanied by fever, cough, and sputum production. Patients may use medications such as penicillin sodium for injection, ceftazidime injection, and ribavirin injection as directed to control infection, along with oxygen therapy and back tapping to aid sputum clearance.

5. Inhalation of irritating gases: Inhalation of irritating gases such as chlorine or ammonia can damage lung tissue, increasing permeability and causing pulmonary edema, often accompanied by sore throat and chest tightness. Immediate removal from the contaminated environment is essential, along with oxygen administration and maintaining airway patency. Medications such as budesonide suspension, ipratropium bromide aerosol, and methylprednisolone sodium succinate for injection may be used as directed to reduce pulmonary inflammation.

During intravenous infusion, strictly follow medical instructions to control the rate and avoid self-adjustment. Before entering high-altitude areas, perform acclimatization training and carry oxygen equipment. Avoid exposure to irritating gases, take protective measures when working in related environments, and undergo regular pulmonary examinations.