What is a key symptom of pulmonary edema?

A key symptom of pulmonary edema is frothy, pink sputum. This occurs because when fluid accumulates in the alveoli (the tiny air sacs in the lungs), it mixes with air and the excess fluid spills over into the airways. As a result, when the person coughs, the sputum appears frothy and may also take on a pink tinge due to the presence of blood or other components. This symptom is particularly indicative of congestion in the lungs and the body's response to fluid overload.

Rapid pulse, severe coughing fits, and chest heaviness may be associated with various respiratory conditions or heart issues, but they do not specifically indicate pulmonary edema as clearly as frothy, pink sputum does. The presence of this type of sputum is a hallmark sign that points towards fluid in the lungs, making it a critical symptom in the assessment and diagnosis of pulmonary edema.