Edema is the swelling resulting from the abnormal fluid accumulation in the body’s tissues. This commonly develops in the hands, legs, arms, feet and the ankles. This usually is the result of diseases of the heart, liver or the kidneys which cause low levels of albumin that develops the fluid retention.
Causes
Edema can develop as the result of several causes such as weakening of the valves in the legs from a condition known as venous insufficiency, sitting or standing in a single position for a long time, too much salt intake in the diet, pregnancy which can cause pressure on the blood vessels on the lower part of the body and as the result of various medications to control blood pressure. Additional causes can include certain conditions such as congestive heart failure, lung, liver, kidney and thyroid diseases.
Symptoms
The symptoms of edema include swelling of the tissues under the skin, stretched skin, enlarged abdomen, trouble walking when the legs are swollen, coughing or breathing difficulty with edema in the lungs and skin that retains a dimple after it is pressed. It is essential to seek medical help, particularly when other symptoms are also present such as shortness of breath, breathing difficulty and chest pain as this can be an indication of pulmonary edema which needs immediate medical treatment.
Types of Edema
There are various types of edema based on the different parts of the body that become affected.
Skin edema develops in the tissues and cells of the skin which is usually harmless.
Peripheral edema mainly develops in the legs, feet and the ankles which can be caused with ageing, pregnancy, kidney problems and congestive heart failure.
Cerebral edema is the accumulation of fluid in the spaces of the brain and is a serious form of edema.
Pulmonary edema is the accumulation of fluid in the lungs as the result of blockage of the pulmonary veins.
Papilledema is the enlarging of the optic nerve of the eye that is the result of intracranial pressure.
Diagnosis
To determine the cause of edema, the physician may conduct a physical examination and evaluate the individual’s medical history. Depending on the case, various diagnostic tests can include x-rays, ultrasound, urine analysis and blood tests.
Treatment
The treatment is based on the type of edema and the individuals are usually advised to include low-sodium diet. The severe form of edema requires medications to remove the excess fluid in the form of urine (diuretics). When the condition is caused by chronic heart failure, along with the treatment for coronary artery disease, the individual is required to monitor their weight, fluid and salt intake. In the case the condition is caused by certain medications, stopping it can resolve the swelling. Additional steps to prevent the fluid accumulation include wearing supportive stockings, not standing in a position for a long time, elevation of the legs when resting, limiting the sugar intake and regular exercise.
References
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/edema/basics/treatment/con-20033037
https://medlineplus.gov/edema.html
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases_conditions/hic_Edema
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/edema
http://www.progressivehealth.com/edema-types.htm
