Cardiac asthma--its origin, recognition and management

Bronchospasm due to cardiac disease results from increased pulmonary capillary pressure and impaired lymphatic drainage. Bronchospasm can usually be attributed to cardiac disease if physical and roentgenographic examination support the diagnosis of cardiac failure. The latter is especially helpful in revealing interstitial edema and redistribution of blood flow to the upper lobes. Therapy is directed at decreasing lung water, improving gas exchange and searching for the underlying mechanism of cardiac failure.