What is Acute Pulmonary Edema primarily characterized by?

Acute Pulmonary Edema is primarily characterized by fluid accumulation in the lungs. This condition often occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, which leads to increased pressure in the pulmonary capillaries and causes fluid to leak into the alveoli. As a result, this fluid interferes with normal gas exchange, leading to significant breathing difficulties and decreased oxygen levels in the bloodstream.

While low blood pressure, chest pain upon exertion, and rapid heart rate can be associated symptoms or conditions related to heart problems, they are not defining characteristics of Acute Pulmonary Edema itself. Instead, the hallmark of this condition is the presence of excess fluid in the lungs, which accounts for the primary symptoms of shortness of breath, coughing (often with frothy sputum), and a feeling of drowning or suffocation. Understanding this key characteristic is crucial for appropriate identification and treatment of the condition.