A condition known as edema occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the body tissues, creating discomfort and swelling. It can affect any part of the body, but it most commonly affects the legs, ankles, feet, arms, hands, and abdomen. The underlying cause and complications of edema may require different treatments.
Edema is caused by the leakage of fluid from the tiny blood vessels called capillaries into the surrounding tissues. This can happen due to several reasons, such as:
High blood pressure: This can increase the pressure in the capillaries and force more fluid out of them.
Heart failure: This can reduce the pumping ability of the heart and cause fluid to back up in the veins and capillaries.
Kidney disease: This can impair the ability of the kidneys to filter out excess fluid and salt from the blood.
Liver disease: This can affect the production of a protein called albumin, which helps keep fluid in the blood vessels. Low albumin levels can lead to fluid leakage into the tissues.
Pregnancy: This can cause hormonal changes that make the body retain more sodium and water than usual. It can also put pressure on the veins in the legs and abdomen, reducing blood flow and increasing fluid retention.
Medications: Some medications can cause edema as a side effect, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), certain hormone therapies, calcium channel blockers, and steroids.
Infection or injury: This can trigger inflammation and increase the permeability of the capillaries, allowing more fluid to escape into the tissues.
Allergic reaction: This can cause swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, or other parts of the body due to an immune response to a foreign substance.
Low protein levels: This can result from malnutrition, protein-losing diseases, or proteinuria (excess protein in the urine).
Venous insufficiency: This is a condition where the valves in the veins do not work properly and allow blood to pool in the lower extremities, causing edema.
The main symptom of edema is swelling of the affected area. The swelling may be mild or severe, depending on the amount of fluid accumulation and the location of edema. Other symptoms may include:
Skin that feels stretched, tight, or shiny
Skin that retains a dimple or pit when pressed for a few seconds
Pain or stiffness in the swollen area
Reduced range of motion or mobility
Weight gain or loss
Difficulty breathing or chest pain (if edema affects the lungs)
Abdominal bloating or discomfort (if edema affects the abdomen)
A health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history and symptoms to diagnose edema. Tests may also be ordered to determine the cause and severity of edema, such as:
Blood tests: These can measure your electrolyte levels, kidney function, liver function, protein levels, and other indicators of your overall health.
Urine tests: These can check for proteinuria, infection, or other abnormalities in your urine.
Ultrasound: This is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of your internal organs and tissues. It can help detect problems with your heart, kidneys, liver, or blood vessels that may cause edema.
Echocardiogram: This is a type of ultrasound that focuses on your heart. It can measure your heart’s size, shape, function, and blood flow.
Chest X-ray: This is an imaging test that uses radiation to create pictures of your chest. It can show if you have fluid in your lungs or other lung problems that may cause edema.
Electrocardiogram (EKG): This is a test that measures your heart’s electrical activity. It can detect abnormal rhythms or signs of heart damage that may cause edema.
Venous Doppler study: This is a type of ultrasound that examines your veins. It can show if you have venous insufficiency or blood clots that may cause edema.
Treatment of edema depends on its cause and severity. The main goals are to reduce the excess fluid in your body and treat the underlying condition that causes it.
These include diuretics (water pills) that help your body eliminate excess fluid. Medications for edema include those that treat high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease, liver disease, or other conditions that cause edema. You should always consult your doctor before taking any medications.
In compression garments, pressure is applied to the swollen area and fluid is prevented from building up. These are usually worn after swelling has gone down to prevent edema from recurring. Your health care provider will explain how to use these properly and safely to you.
It is possible to improve blood flow by elevating your swollen part of your body several times a day above the level of your heart. If you want to elevate your legs, arms, or abdomen, you can use pillows, cushions, or other devices. This can help reduce the pressure in your veins and capillaries.
A massage involves stroking the affected area toward your heart with firm, but not painful pressure. This can help remove fluid from the tissues and return it to the blood vessels. Avoid massaging inflamed, infected, or injured areas.
You should consult with your health care provider about what types of exercises are safe and appropriate for your condition. Exercise can help pump fluid back toward your heart and improve circulation.
Using a diet that is high in potassium, protein, fiber, and antioxidants can help you balance your fluid level, prevent fluid retention, and support your overall health. Avoid foods that are processed, canned, or high in sodium, as they can worsen edema.
Some cases of edema may not be preventable, especially if they are caused by chronic or genetic conditions. However, you can take some steps to reduce your risk of developing edema or prevent it from getting worse, such as:
Follow your health care provider’s advice on managing your underlying condition that causes edema
Take your medications as prescribed and report any side effects to your health care provider
Monitor your weight and fluid intake and output
Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time
Avoid crossing your legs or wearing tight clothing that restricts blood flow
Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or using illicit drugs
Protect your skin from injury and infection
Seek medical attention if you notice any signs of worsening edema or complications
It is a common condition that can affect anyone at any age. Depending on the underlying condition, edema may require a variety of treatments. You can take control of your health and improve your quality of life if you understand the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of edema.
