Getting fluid out of your lungs without surgery is usually achieved through non-invasive treatments.
Common Methods:
- Medications: Doctors often prescribe medications to help your body naturally remove the fluid. These medications can include:
- Diuretics: These medications help your body remove excess fluid by increasing urine production.
- Antibiotics: If the fluid buildup is caused by an infection, antibiotics are used to fight the infection.
- Oxygen Therapy: Supplemental oxygen can be given to help improve breathing and reduce the amount of fluid in your lungs.
- Chest Physiotherapy: This involves techniques like coughing, deep breathing exercises, and percussion to help loosen and clear the fluid from your lungs.
- Nebulizers: These devices deliver medication directly into your lungs, which can help to reduce inflammation and clear fluid.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Swelling in your legs or ankles
- Fever
It is important to remember that these methods are intended to treat the underlying cause of the fluid buildup and not just remove the fluid.
