Edema refers to swelling due to fluid buildup in bodily tissues. It is common in the skin but can affect the brain, lungs, and other organs.
There are different causes and types of edema. For example, pulmonary edema affects the lungs, while pedal edema causes swelling in the feet. Acrylic Paint For Leather Edge
Edema usually starts slowly, but the onset can be sudden. It is a common condition, but it can also be a sign of a serious condition.
This article will explain what edema is and how to recognize it, as well as the different types of and treatments for edema. It will also look at possible complications of the condition.
Edema refers to swelling and puffiness in different areas of the body.
It most often occurs in the skin, especially in the hands, arms, ankles, legs, and feet. However, it can also affect the muscles, bowel, lungs, eyes, and brain.
Edema mainly occurs in older adults and pregnant people, but anyone can experience it.
Symptoms depend on the underlying cause, but swelling, tightness, and pain are common.
A person with edema may also notice:
Symptoms can also depend on the type of edema a person has and which part of the body it affects.
There are many types of edema. Each one can indicate a range of further health conditions.
Edema can occur in other locations as well, but those mentioned above are the most common.
Edema can result from circulatory problems, infection, tissue death, malnutrition, total body fluid overload, and electrolyte problems.
There are many other possible causes of edema, including the following.
If one or both of the lower chambers of the heart cannot pump blood properly, blood can accumulate in the limbs, causing edema.
Learn more about heart failure here.
The body of a person with a kidney disorder may not be able to eliminate enough fluid and sodium from the blood. This puts pressure on the blood vessels, which causes some of the liquid to leak out. Swelling can occur around the legs and eyes.
Learn more about kidney disease here.
Cirrhosis affects liver function. It can lead to changes in the secretion of hormones and fluid-regulating chemicals and reduced protein production. This causes fluid to leak out of the blood vessels into surrounding tissue.
Cirrhosis also increases pressure within the portal vein, which is the large vein that carries blood from the intestines, spleen, and pancreas to the liver. Edema can occur in the legs and abdominal cavity.
Learn more about liver disease here.
Certain medications can also increase the risk of edema.
During pregnancy, the body releases hormones that encourage fluid retention. The body also retains more sodium and water than usual. The face, hands, lower limbs, and feet may swell.
When a person rests in a reclined position during pregnancy, the enlarged uterus can press on a vein known as the inferior vena cava. This can obstruct the femoral veins, leading to edema.
During pregnancy, the blood clots more easily. This can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is another potential cause of edema.
Eclampsia, which results from pregnancy-induced hypertension, or high blood pressure, can also cause edema.
Learn more in our dedicated pregnancy and parenthood hub.
A number of dietary factors can also affect the risk of edema, such as:
Some complications of diabetes include:
These complications, and certain medications for diabetes, can result in edema.
Diabetic macular edema is the swelling of the retina in diabetes.
Learn more about diabetes here.
Some causes of swelling in the brain include:
Some foods and insect bites may cause edema of the face or skin in people who have allergies or sensitivities to them. Severe swelling can be a symptom of anaphylaxis.
Swelling in the throat can close a person’s airway, so they cannot breathe. This is a medical emergency.
Learn more about allergies in our asthma and allergies hub.
Some extremity-related causes of edema include:
Some other possible causes of edema include:
Edema can indicate one of many health conditions. These can range in severity, so it is important for a person to check with a doctor if they notice any unexplained swelling. Accurate and timely diagnosis of the underlying cause can help improve health outcomes.
If edema occurs alongside chest pain or difficulty breathing, it is essential to seek emergency help immediately.
Treatment will also depend on the cause of edema.
Diuretics are a type of medication. They help eliminate excess fluid by increasing the rate of urine production by the kidneys. Different types work in different ways.
A doctor will recommend a specific treatment plan for macular edema, pulmonary edema, and other types of edema.
A person with edema could also try wearing compression garments and doing specific exercises to help.
Untreated edema can lead to:
Any underlying condition needs medical treatment to prevent it from becoming more serious.
Some self-care techniques can help reduce or prevent edema.
A masseuse or physical therapist may help remove the fluid by stroking firmly in the direction of the heart.
Oxygen may be useful for treating some types of edema. For example, an individual with cardiogenic pulmonary edema may need additional oxyge n if they have difficulty taking in enough.
Edema occurs when fluid builds up in the body. This causes swelling, which can sometimes be painful.
There are several potential causes of edema, including pregnancy, heart failure, liver disease, and certain medications. The treatment a person receives will depend on the cause.
Last medically reviewed on November 13, 2023
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