Which condition involves fluid in the lungs due to heart failure?

• A. Atherosclerosis
• B. Pulmonary Edema
• C. Pink Frothy Sputum
• D. Jugular Vein Distention

Answer: (B)

Fluid in the lungs due to heart failure is pulmonary edema. It happens when the left side of the heart can’t effectively pump blood, so pressure backs up into the pulmonary circulation. The increased capillary hydrostatic pressure pushes fluid out into the lung interstitium and alveoli, filling the air spaces and impairing gas exchange. Clinically, this leads to shortness of breath and crackles on exam, and in more severe cases you can see pink, frothy sputum as the edema fluid mixes with air and blood. The other options describe related signs or conditions but do not name the actual fluid buildup in the lungs caused by heart failure.