Puffiness in the body occurs when the body retains too much fluid, a condition medically referred to as edema. The kidneys are responsible for fluid regulation, so often, puffiness occurs as a result of kidney abnormalities. Puffiness may also occur when the body contains too much salt and retains water in an attempt to regain normal fluid balance.
Hypernatremia
Sodium is an electrolyte that is important for proper functioning of nerves and muscles as well as blood pressure regulation. Hypernatremia is an increased concentration of sodium in the blood. Too much sodium in the blood throws off the body's balance and causes generalized puffiness as well as a decrease in urine output. If the sodium concentration is extremely high, it affects the brain and can cause muscle twitching, fatigue and confusion. Hypernatremia can occur when the body loses too much water, such as during intense periods of sweating or excessive urine output, or if excess salt and not enough water are consumed, according to the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Hypernatremia is treated by replacing lost fluid--either through oral or intravenous intake, depending on the severity of the condition.
Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by its symptoms of protein in the urine, low protein levels in the blood, high cholesterol, high triglycerides and generalized puffiness; and it usually occurs as a result of a number of kidney diseases that damage the kidneys, according to the website MedlinePlus. When the kidneys are damaged, they cannot properly eliminate waste and regulate fluid balance, which causes the puffiness associated with nephrotic syndrome. Infections, immune disorders and certain genetic disorders also may cause nephrotic syndrome. In addition to the aforementioned symptoms, nephrotic syndrome also can cause foamy urine, weight gain, poor appetite and high blood pressure. The goal of treatment is to stop disease progression and prevent further damage to the kidneys. This is accomplished through a combination of medications, following a low salt diet and vitamin supplementation.
Heart Failure
Heart failure is defined as the inability of the heart to pump enough blood to meet the needs of the body. Heart failure usually occurs after the gradual weakening of the heart muscles from other chronic heart diseases such as coronary artery disease, heart valve diseases and high blood pressure. Although both sides of the heart may be involved in heart failure, the left side of the heart is the most commonly affected, according to MayoClinic.com. When the heart cannot pump efficiently, blood begins to pool in the body and causes puffiness, especially in the legs, ankles, feet and abdomen. Other symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath, weakness, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, weight gain, lack of appetite and inability to concentrate. Heart failure requires lifelong management with a combination of medications and a strict diet plan. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the condition that caused the heart to fail.
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