Manifestations of cardiogenic pulmonary edema
Disease description:
My grandfather is 65 years old. Recently, he has often complained of difficulty breathing and shortness of breath. After visiting the hospital for examination, the doctor diagnosed him with cardiogenic pulmonary edema. I would like to know what are the common symptoms of cardiogenic pulmonary edema?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Cardiogenic pulmonary edema is a pathological condition caused by impaired cardiac pumping function, leading to obstruction of pulmonary blood circulation, increased pulmonary venous pressure, and subsequent accumulation of fluid in the pulmonary interstitium and alveoli. The main symptoms include the following aspects:
1. Dyspnea is the most typical symptom of cardiogenic pulmonary edema. Patients experience shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity or when lying flat, and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea is also common.
2. Patients may experience frequent dry coughing or cough up frothy, pink-tinged sputum, which results from pulmonary fluid accumulation irritating the respiratory tract.
3. Due to impaired gas exchange in the lungs, blood oxygen saturation decreases, causing cyanosis of the lips, nail beds, and other areas.
4. Patients may exhibit signs such as jugular venous distension, tachycardia, increased heart sounds, elevated blood pressure, and widespread crackles and/or wheezing in both lungs. These signs indicate severe impairment of cardiac and pulmonary function.
If cardiogenic pulmonary edema is suspected, prompt medical attention is necessary.
