Edema Symptoms

Due to several reasons, there might occur the accumulation of excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues. Such a condition has its consequences as the swelling of the affected part of the body, like the legs, arms, feet, ankles, legs, etc. This swelling or puffy appearance is known as edema. Now, how does this condition occur? The tiny blood vessels in the body, known as the capillaries, may get subjected to damage or increased pressure. This causes the capillaries to start leaking fluid. This leakage, however, may also occur when there is a drop in the level of serum albumin (albumin occurring in blood serum; serves to maintain the somatic pressure of the blood). So, in order to make for the loss of fluid from the capillaries, the body begins retaining more sodium and water than normal. This response of the body, increases the amount of fluid circulating through the body. This causes the capillaries to leak more than ever. The leaked fluid makes its way to the surrounding tissue, causing it to swell up.

Edema Causes

Edema may be mild or severe. A severe edema may be indicative of some serious underlying conditions. Sitting or staying in a position for too long or taking too much of salty foods can give rise to mild edema. Pregnancy and premenstrual signs and symptoms may also be responsible for causing this condition. Some people suffer from edema as a result of the side effects of certain medications. Some of them include those taken for diabetes, for opening up blood vessels and some like calcium antagonists and NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs). Severe cases of edema may be the outcome of certain medical conditions which raise concerns for the health. These might include congestive heart failure, cirrhosis, kidney disease, kidney damage, weakened or damaged lymphatic system and trauma to the veins in the legs.

Characteristic Symptoms of Edema

There aren't many symptoms that indicate edema, but they are definitely prominent. As mentioned, puffiness or swelling of the tissue under the skin is the characteristic indicant of edema. The skin may appear stretched or shiny and there might be an abnormal increase in size of the affected part of the body. Puffiness of the face around the eyes, tenderness of the skin and a dimple-like formation on the skin after being pressed for several seconds are also among the symptoms. Apart from these symptoms, the affected person may also suffer from disorder of the kidneys, lungs and heart. This is because, as the fluid builds up massively, these organs start becoming overworked. Due to this, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest pain may also occur. Victims also tend to gain weight rapidly due to the fluid accumulation. Weight loss is also a possible outcome of edema. This occurs when the fluid starts getting accumulated in the stomach and abdomen. This makes the patient feel full at all times and thus, leading to a poor appetite and ultimately, weight loss.

Edema Treatment

Treatment mainly involves addressing to the underlying cause of the problem. Apart from treating the underlying condition, patients may also be recommended to undergo a course of medications, which may help to increase the kidney's output of water. The doctor may also advise the patient to limit the intake of salt in the diet. This is to reduce the fluid retention by the body.

At home, the patient can follow certain exercises which may improve the edema symptoms. These exercises are best when recommended by the doctor. Keeping the affected part at a level that is higher than that of the heart is one effective remedy for reducing the discomfort of edema. Use this method 3 or 4 times a day and while sleeping. The excess fluid in the affected area may be moved out of the area by applying gentle and firm massages, directing towards the heart. Wearing compression stockings and the like, would help to prevent the fluid from collecting in the tissue.

You must also ensure not to expose yourself to too hot or too cold temperatures. Failing to do so, might aggravate the symptoms. So, keep yourself warm in colder climates and cool in warmer climates.