What Is Edema?
Edema, also known as dropsy, is swelling caused by fluid retention. Edema usually occurs in
the legs, ankles, or feet. But it can also occur in the hands, the face, or any
other part of the body.
What Causes Edema?
Edema is
usually a symptom of another condition. In women, it is often a sign of
pregnancy or a sign that the menstrual cycle is about to occur (Mayo Clinic, 2011).
Serious
illnesses such as heart failure, kidney disease, and liver problems (such as
cirrhosis) may also cause edema.
Medications,
such as those prescribed for high blood pressure, diabetes, or pain, can cause
edema. Sometimes, edema is a result of damaged or varicose veins in the legs.
After a
mastectomy, edema can be a result of removal of the lymph nodes. This form of
edema is known as lymphedema.
A poor diet,
especially a diet containing too much salt, can cause mild edema or worsen it
when combined with other conditions. Lack of activity can cause edema. But
spending too much time on your feet, especially in hot weather, can worsen it (Medline Plus, 2013).
When to Seek Help for Edema
If you
experience edema while pregnant, call a doctor. It can be an indicator of
complications.
Seek emergency
assistance if you have trouble breathing. In pulmonary edema, the lungs fill
with water. This is a serious medical condition.
Treatment
The two most
common solutions for alleviating edema are reducing salt intake and keeping the
legs up when sitting.
Treatment
at home
Reduce
salt and eat healthily. Too much sodium can cause or aggravate edema. It's
important to eat foods rich in vitamins A, C, E, and B, as well as green
vegetables. Moderate exercise can keep swelling from occurring. Avoid tobacco
and alcohol.Wear
support stockings or apply pressure to the swollen area.Try
acupuncture or massage. Herbal
remedies such as bilberry, dandelion, and grape seed extract may alleviate
edemaA
medical professional may recommend hot or cold therapy.
Medical
treatment
If a
life-threatening illness is causing edema, see a doctor immediately.
The advice you
receive from a medical professional will depend upon your condition:
Pregnancy:
Fluid retention can be dangerous for pregnant women. Diuretics may be
prescribed.
Heart
disease: For people with heart failure, diuretics used in conjunction with
other medications can improve symptoms.
Cirrhosis
of the liver: Reducing salt and taking a diuretic improves symptoms.
Lymphedema:
Diuretics can he helpful during the early onset of lymphedema. Now that
breast cancer surgery is much less invasive, this form of edema is
becoming less common (OâBrien, et al., 2005).
Medication-induced
edema: Diuretics do not work in these instances.
Preventing Edema
To prevent
edema, stay as physically active as you are able, avoid excess sodium in your
diet, and follow your doctorâs orders regarding any conditions that cause
edema.
Source: http://www.healthline.com