What is Edema? What are its Symptoms and its Treatment?

Edema is a general term that refers to fluid accumulation in the body – either in tissue or in the open spaces in and around major organs. The word in Greek and Middle English original referred to swelling. This definition is still appropriate because most of the edema conditions human beings suffer involve visible swelling somewhere on the body.

One of the most common types of edema is swelling in the lower limbs – feet and legs. In this case, fluid gathers around blood vessels and under the skin, causing the legs and feet to enlarge. In many situations this is a symptom of some root cause, especially problems with the heart, kidneys or liver. If these major organs are not functioning properly, the body may not eliminate fluid and salt. This leads directly to the swelling we know as edema.

Fluid retention in the main body cavity can cause serious problems as well. Fluid buildup around the heart and lungs may not only threaten your health, the condition can be life-threatening. If the heart is not functioning properly, before or after this type of edema, the flow of blood to the kidneys can lead to fluid retention and general toxicity.

Doctors generally place edema in one of two categories, which have the unlikely names of pitting and non-pitting. But the terms are very descriptive. With pitting edema the areas that swell will also show some indentations caused by tightly fitting clothing. With leg/foot edema you may see indentations from socks that are tight on the swelling area. Non-pitting edema does not exhibit these obvious indentations. Non-pitting edema usually has a different cause than pitting edema.

People may develop edema without a basic cause like heart or kidney problems. This might occur with women during the menstrual period. It is given the name “cyclical” edema. Women may be able to reduce swelling and discomfort with diuretics – substances that help eliminate body fluids. It is also important to reduce salt intake during these periods or to reduce salt intake in general, throughout the year.

Edema may appear quite quickly in some cases but most people who suffer from this condition notice a gradual increase in swelling. Fluid gathers slowly over time unless some steps are taken to change the course of this malady. Some edema can be prevented by slight increases in physical activity since this activity tends to help the body eliminate fluids and unneeded substances. In fact, someone who has minor problems with fluid retention may notice that the condition worsens during extended periods of standing or sitting. If you have a problem with recurrent edema you should take precautions when flying or walking at high altitudes. This can contribute to pulmonary edema.

In addition to maintaining a regular program of exercise and a healthy diet, you may be able to reduce edema problems with diuretics. Tea works well for some. There are also prescription diuretics that may be used in more severe cases. Avoid extreme cold and extreme heat if possible. Massage can also help the body get rid of excess fluids.