Abstract
Pulmonary edema is characterized by accumulation of fluid in the lung interstitium associated with the development of respiratory insufficiency accompanied with severe clinical symptoms. Lung edema resulting from intensive physical activity in water (swimming, diving) is called swimming induced pulmonary edema (SIPE).
So far, pathophysiology of the disease has not been fully elucidated. According to current knowledge, many factors play important role: cold environment leading to peripheral vasoconstriction, centralization of the blood circulation and increased venous return to heart, increased physical activity, and increased pressure of the breathing gas and compression of the lung tissue.
Latest data have showed, that lung edema can develop also during breath-hold diving. The development of SIPE can be facilitated by pre-existing myocardial disease and arterial hypertension.
Clinical symptoms include dyspnea, cough and/or hemoptysis. Diagnosis is based on the typical clinical picture, electrocardiography, chest x-ray, CT examination can be very useful.
Therapy is based on oxygen and diuretics. Hospitalization is usually necessary.
Prevention is under research.