Postpartum Respiratory Distress Due to Hypertension-Related Pulmonary Edema

Abstract

We present the case of a 35-year-old female who presented to the emergency department (ED) shortly after undergoing a cesarean section with dyspnea. Her vitals on admission revealed hypertension, tachypnea, bradycardia, and suboptimal oxygen saturation. Physical examination was remarkable for crackles in the lower lung fields. Laboratory results revealed elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (pro-BNP), and D-dimer levels. A CT angiogram showed no pulmonary emboli, and an echocardiogram revealed a normal ejection fraction and no diastolic dysfunction. A chest X-ray was significant for pulmonary edema and vascular congestion. The patient was diagnosed with respiratory distress due to pulmonary edema that was secondary to hypertension. This unusual case report seeks to highlight the idea that elevated blood pressure in postpartum women should warrant careful monitoring, as its consequential manifestations may be lethal. Additionally, pulmonary edema secondary to hypertension should be considered as a differential in either postpartum or peripartum women who present with respiratory symptoms and elevated blood pressure.