Immersion pulmonary edema is sudden development of fluid in the lungs that typically occurs early during a dive and at depth.
(See also Overview of Diving Injuries.)
Immersion pulmonary edema has become more widely recognized over the past two decades. It happens when blood from the legs and abdomen is redistributed to the lungs, which increases pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs, causing leakage of plasma into the air spaces. This usually occurs in competitive open-water swimmers at the surface but can also occur in divers. Immersion pulmonary edema is not related to lung barotrauma or decompression sickness. Cold water and a history of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular disorders are risk factors.
Divers usually ascend rapidly and become very short of breath. A cough with frothy or bloody sputum is typical and blood oxygen levels are low.
Doctors may do tests such as chest x-rays and echocardiography to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment includes removal from the water and oxygen. Diuretics and mechanical ventilation in the hospital are sometimes necessary. Recompression therapy is not given.
Prevention of Immersion Pulmonary Edema
Doctors will screen people who have had immersion pulmonary edema for
Doctors will also consider silent coronary artery disease in people with appropriate risk factors.
Immersion pulmonary edema tends to recur in susceptible individuals; therefore, such people should be evaluated for treatable risk factors before returning to diving or competitive swimming.
More Information
The following English-language resources may be useful. Please note that THE MANUAL is not responsible for the content of these resources.
Divers Alert Network: 24-hour emergency hotline, 919-684-9111
Duke Dive Medicine: 24-hour emergency consultation with a doctor, 919-684-8111
