Alcohol Vapor by Inhalation in the Treatment of Acute Pulmonary Edema

Abstract

Accepted therapy of pulmonary edema is contraindicated in shock, central nervous system lesions, or pregnancy. Diagnosis of the underlying disease is not always immediately possible. Alcohol inhalation, previously tested in animals, changes surface tension of the foam and has beneficial effects. Clinical experience has revealed prompt relief in over one-half of the acute cases, definite improvement in another 29 per cent. Some cases with subacute edema also exhibited decreased foaming. The absence of contraindications and the possibility of using the method in conjunction with other procedures are favorable elements of alcohol therapy by inhalation.