1. Fluid Trapped in the Body's Tissues
Edema occurs when your body's tissues retain extra fluid. The hands, arms, feet, ankles and legs are more susceptible. To check for edema, press a finger down on the affected area, wait 15 seconds and then release. If edema is present, a depression remains in the spot where your finger was. Shiny or stretched skin is another sign of edema. Occasionally, fluid builds in the alveoli of the lungs leading to a condition known as pulmonary edema. Anasarca is a condition that results in a buildup of fluid in all parts of the body simultaneously.
2. Pooling Effect
Certain behaviors impact how your body retains excess fluid. If you stand or sit for too long, gravitational force pulls fluid down into your legs and feet. Waiting in lines, taking long flights or driving great distances are prime conditions for fluid retention. You can minimize these effects by wearing compression socks or stockings. These stockings encourage the movement of blood. In addition, try to get up and walk around while on long flights. Stop and take exercise breaks during long driving trips. Food also plays a role. Specifically, salt consumption may lead to edema if the kidneys aren't effective at removing excess salt from the body.
3. Fluid Forming Conditions
There are several medical conditions that contribute to excess fluid retention. Kidney and heart disease inhibit the ability of the kidneys to excrete excess salt. Other conditions that cause edema include liver disease, deep vein thrombosis, chronic venous insufficiency and lymphedema. Hormonal fluctuations and physical changes occurring during pregnancy and prior to menstruation may lead to retention of fluid. Some medications, such as calcium channel blockers, vasodilators and certain diabetes medications, may cause fluid retention.
4. Treat Edema
Edema patients can increase circulation and movement of blood in their legs by wearing compression stockings. Purchase these online or at your local pharmacy. Excess fluid in the lower part of the body may be alleviated by elevating the legs while lying down. Doctors typically treat secondary edema, resulting from another underlying condition, by treating the underlying condition first. Finally, your doctor may prescribe diuretics, such as thiazide, furosemide and spironolactone, to alleviate symptoms.
5. Extreme Edema
If edema goes unchecked and untreated, complications may occur. Excess fluid eventually leads to reduced mobility and stiffness. People also notice increasing discomfort and pain. As swelling worsens, the skin stretches and may become irritated and itchy. Sometimes skin becomes infected or breaks down through ulcers. Blood circulation decreases and blood vessels lose elasticity.
