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NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms

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pulmonary edema  listen  (PUL-muh-NAYR-ee eh-DEE-muh)

  A buildup of fluid in the alveoli (air spaces) in the lungs. This keeps oxygen from getting into the blood. Pulmonary edema is usually caused by heart problems, but it can also be caused by high blood pressure, pneumonia, certain toxins and medicines, or living at a high altitude. Symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, and trouble exercising.