WHAT IS FLUID IN THE LUNGS?
“Fluid in (or around) the lungs” is a frequently used explanation given to patients manifesting a variety of different respiratory conditions. This fluid can be seen on chest xray, and may be within the lung alveoli or surrounding the lungs (in which case it is actually outside the lungs, between them and the chest wall). Some patients may have fluid in both places. When fluid builds up in the alveolar spaces it is called pulmonary edema (see Section M). When it builds up around the lungs it is called a pleural effusion, because the pleura are the thin membranes surrounding the lungs (see Section M). The most common cause for fluid in (pulmonary edema) or around (pleural effusion) the lungs is congestive heart failure (CHF). Congestive is a good term, because that is just what the lungs becomecongested, or backed up with fluid. The cause is a weak and therefore failing heart. Treatment with medication to remove the fluid (diuretics, digitalis) is often beneficial and can relieve the a
