Pulmonary oedema after airway obstruction may occur after as little as a minute of airway obstruction. Its onset may be rapid and severe and is thought to be caused by the excessive sub-atmospheric intrathoracic pressure.

Occasionally it may be delayed. Pulmonary oedema should be anticipated and actively excluded after severe airway obstruction.

Treatment is with high concentrations of oxygen and CPAP. Diuretics and opioids may also be useful.

Pulmonary oedema usually settles within 24 hours, but may require admission to Intensive Care and a period of ventilation.