Several systems in the body are responsible for maintaining fluid balance. These include the circulatory, lymphatic and urinary systems. When there are disturbances in normal functioning of any of these systems, lower extremity edema, which is medically referred to as peripheral edema, may occur. Edema is the term for swelling in an area of the body due to an accumulation of fluid.
Lymphatic Obstruction
The lymphatic system consists of organs, ducts and lymph nodes that help distribute immune cells throughout the body as well as drain fluid from body tissues and cells. The lymph nodes are mainly responsible for fluid drainage. A lymphatic obstruction, which is also referred to as lymphedema, is a blockage of the lymph nodes. Causes of lymphatic obstruction include infections, injury, radiation therapy, skin infections, tumors and surgery, according to MedlinePlus. The main symptom of a lymphatic obstruction is edema in the legs and arms. Treatment for a lymphatic obstruction focuses on draining the lymph nodes and maintaining fluid balance. This is done through compression, light massage therapy and specific exercises. In rare cases, surgery is needed to remove fluid from the lymph nodes.
Nephrotic Syndrome
The kidneys contain tiny blood vessels called glomeruli, which are responsible for filtering waste and excess water from the blood. In healthy individuals, the glomeruli keep the protein in the blood from moving into the urine. In those with nephrotic syndrome, the glomeruli do not work properly and as a result, en excess amount of protein moves from the blood into the urine. Protein in the blood plays an important role in fluid balance, so when it is deficient, fluid accumulates in the body tissues. This results in widespread edema, especially in the limbs and around the eyes, according to the National Kidney and Urological Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Those with nephrotic syndrome also have high blood cholesterol. Treatment for nephrotic syndrome consists of medications and diet changes. The National Kidney and Urological Diseases Information Clearinghouse notes that approximately half of those with nephrotic syndrome develop chronic kidney disease.
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is a circulatory disease characterized by the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. This weakness of the heart muscle makes it difficult for the heart to efficiently pump blood throughout the body. If the body does not receive enough blood, it does not receive enough oxygen either, since oxygen is carried in red blood cells. This can result in breathlessness; edema in the legs, ankles, feet and abdomen; fatigue; irregular heartbeats; and lightheadedness. In most cases, the cause of cardiomyopathy cannot be determined, however, MayoClinic.com lists some contributing factors, such as chronic high blood pressure, heart valve problems, metabolic disorders and alcohol abuse. Treatment for cardiomyopathy varies between individuals, but generally consists of a combination of medications and possible surgery.
