Lung Cancer: Fluid in Lungs

Fluid in lungs is also called pulmonary edema or lung water. It is the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, which leads to impaired exchange of gas and respiratory failure. This condition can be caused either due to failure of the heart to remove fluid from the lungs or due to direct injury caused to the lungs. Fluid in lungs and cancer have a close connection as well, as this condition can arise, when a person is suffering from cancer. In most of the cases of stage III B and stage IV lung cancer, the patient may suffer from fluid accumulation in lungs. Likewise fluid in lungs after heart surgery is also commonly seen. When the fluid in lungs contain cancer cells, the condition is called malignant pleural effusion. This fluid build-up is the cause of shortness of breath in stage III B and stage IV lung cancer patients. The treatment of fluid in lungs depends on the cause of the problem, but often focuses on maximizing respiratory function and removing the cause of the problem.

Causes of Fluid in Lungs

Fluid filled lungs can be caused due to numerous disorders. There is a connection between fluid in lungs and heart disorders. It causes the fluid to back up in the blood vessels, which carry blood away from the lungs to the heart. Due to which, pressure builds up in the veins and excess fluid leaks out into the alveoli. It can also be caused due to fluid overload in the body. Too much liquid intake by a person suffering from heart disease or kidney disease causes strain on the veins leading to fluid build-up in the lungs.

Infection of the lungs, like pneumonia, etc. may also lead to the condition. In some cases, if the blood vessels are blocked, due to air bubbles, fat, amniotic fluids, as is the case with the newborn or clotting of the blood also strain the blood vessels, which lead can cause fluid build-up in the lungs. Although the pancreas are not located very close to the lungs, irritation, infection or damage caused to the pancreas can lead to pressure being exerted on the lungs and leaking of fluids in to the lungs.

Fluid build-up is seen in the area around the lungs in cancer patients, to be more precise between the lungs and chest walls. When there is fluid build-up the patient suffers from shortness of breath. In most cases, the fluid contains malignant cells. The fluid accumulation may also be seen around the heart in some cases. Patients may suffer from fluid build-up after they have undergone a therapy to get rid of cancer cells. The accumulation can cause enlargement of right side of the heart, which in some cases can lead to heart failure.

Drug overdose, which can either be heroin, cocaine, or medical drugs like aspirin can also cause fluid in lungs. Condition like shock, drowning or even high altitude sickness, coupled with rapid climbing to heights can lead to pulmonary edema as well. Inhaling a poisonous gas can also cause fluid build-up. In some condition, inhaling stomach contents, while vomiting can cause accumulation of fluid in the lungs. Fluid in lungs after surgery is also commonly seen.

Symptoms of Fluid in Lungs

Shortness of breath with or without activity is one of the fluid in lungs symptoms. Some patients may find it difficult to sleep on a flat-bed and may require more than 2 pillows for a peaceful sleep. This condition can be as a result of fluid accumulation in lungs. The air passages may be constricted due to the fluid, which in turn makes it difficult for the patient to breathe and suffer from shortness of breath.

Wheezing sound while breathing, wet gurgling sound in the chest are also symptoms of fluid in lungs. Some people may suffer from a feeling of suffocation or drowning as a result of fluid filled lungs. If the cough produces frothy sputum, which may also be tinged with blood, it is an indicator of fluid in lungs. If the condition is as a result of heart disease, then it can also give rise of chest pain.

Rapid weight gain can also hint towards fluid in lungs, if the condition develops as a result of congestive heart failure. In this condition, the heart is able to pump very little blood and is not able to meet the needs of the body. The weight gain is caused due to accumulation of fluid in the body, more so in the legs. Hence, fluid retention can also hint towards pulmonary edema. Insomnia and headache can also be indicators of fluid in lungs.

The aim of treatment for this condition is to remove the fluid from the lungs and prevent accumulation of any more fluid in the lungs. Fluid may have to be drained out of the lungs at regular intervals. This is a common condition in people suffering with lung cancer. If you notice any of the condition associated with fluid in lungs, then it is recommended, that you do not waste any time and get yourself examined from your health care professional.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical expert.