Water retention occurs when excess fluid builds up in the body. This fluid accumulates in the bloodstream or in the tissues between the organs. This results in swelling and discomfort of the affected area. Causes of water retention include pregnancy, congestive heart failure, kidney disorders, allergic reactions and lymphedema. Several medications also cause water retention.
Estrogen
Medications that contain estrogen can cause water retention in some people. Oral contraceptives, more commonly known as birth control pills, contain estrogen. Dr. Frederick Jelovsek of Women’s Health Resource explains that estrogen stimulates a substance known as renin-angiotensin. This substance, found in the kidneys, causes water retention and sodium retention. Oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy drugs contain estrogen.
Blood Pressure Medications
Because high blood pressure has serious health risks, some people have to take prescription medications to control their blood pressure. Types of blood pressure drugs include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, vasodilators and ACE inhibitors. When the blood pressure decreases, the kidneys secrete renin. This enzyme plays a role in the secretion of aldosterone, which cause the kidneys to retain sodium. The Merck Manuals Home Edition explains that the extra sodium increases the blood volume of the body and causes water retention.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids have an anti-inflammatory effect that makes them useful in the treatment of asthma, colitis, Crohn’s disease, arthritis and skin conditions. Oral forms of corticosteroids include methylprednisone, prednisone and hydrocortisone. Doctors also prescribe inhaled corticosteroids, intravenous corticosteroids and corticosteroids in suppository form. These drugs cause water retention, which leads to weight gain and puffiness of the face. The severity of these side effects depends on the dose and duration of use.
Antidepressants
Triclycic antidepressants and MAO inhibitors have water retention as a side effect. Tricyclic antidepressants relieve depression symptoms by inhibiting the reabsorption of norepinephrine and seorotonin in the brain. This regulates mood and reduces anger, irritability and other symptoms of depression, according to MayoClinic.com. MAO inhibitors block the effects of monoamine oxidase on the nervous system. This also reduces the symptoms of depression. Because water retention causes weight gain in some people who take antidepressants, using these drugs makes it necessary to see a health professional regularly.
Ibuprofen
Prescription-strength ibuprofen treats moderate pain and inflammation caused by injuries and musculoskeletal disorders. One of the side effects of this drug is water retention. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration indicates that ibuprofen and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs increase the risk of congestive heart failure in those who have heart problems.
