Edema often goes beyond just showing signs of swelling visible as it can also happen inside the body “internally.” It may include some symptoms, such as shortness of breath. In conditions where there is fluid in the lungs, known as pulmonary edema, patients may have trouble breathing, even with no or light physical activities or while standing still.
This is a common thing, and it sometimes happens with an accompanying feeling of palpitations, coughing, and wheezing. Thus, it feels like choking or not being able to fully breathe in. Sleeping totally flat would lead to the worsening of the symptoms of those with pulmonary edema. However, sleeping in a more upright position could relieve this discomfort.
Shortness of breath with edema is often related to cardiovascular involvement. Fluid balance is a major function of the heart, and if it can’t pump the blood properly, the fluid is returned to the lungs, impairing oxygen exchange. Consequently, the body has difficulty managing a proper oxygen level and, as a result, feels exhausted and weak. Patients suffering from congestive heart failure are quite often the ones who notice this type of edema, which, in the case of prolonged negligence, could be a true health hazard.
