Final answer:
The condition characterized by fluid accumulation in the lungs is known as pulmonary edema. It is often linked to heart or kidney failure and can lead to difficulty breathing and chest pain, requiring prompt medical care.
Step-by-step explanation:
The condition in which fluid accumulates in the lungs is called pulmonary edema. This is a serious medical condition most commonly associated with heart failure or kidney failure. People experiencing pulmonary edema will often have symptoms such as difficulty breathing and may also suffer from chest pain.
Pulmonary edema is life-threatening because it disrupts gas exchange in the lungs, which is crucial for oxygenating blood and removing carbon dioxide. The accumulation of fluid in the alveoli, the air sacs where this gas exchange occurs, prevents the lungs from functioning properly. It is imperative that anyone showing symptoms of pulmonary edema seek immediate medical attention.