Complications

Complications depend on the underlying cause.

In general, if pulmonary edema continues, the pressure in the pulmonary artery can go up (pulmonary hypertension). Eventually, the heart becomes weak and begins to fail, and pressures in the heart and lungs go up.

Complications can include:

• Breathing difficulty
• Swelling of the legs, feet and abdomen
• Buildup of fluid in the membranes that surround your lungs (pleural effusion)
• Congestion and swelling of the liver

Immediate treatment is necessary for acute pulmonary edema to prevent death.