What is Edema?
Edema is a localized or general swelling caused by the buildup of fluid
within body tissues. Excess fluid may be a result of poor circulation of
the blood; a failure of the lymphatic system to disperse the fluid; various
diseases and disorders; or a combination of factors.
Other causes of edema include fluid retention caused by disease of the
heart or kidneys or a reduction in the amount of protein in the blood, which
may occur as a result of cirrhosis, chronic nephritis, malnutrition, or
toxemia of pregnancy. Localized edema may result from injury or infection.
At-Risk Groups
People with a history of heart disease or kidney disease can be at risk
for edema. Liver disease (cirrhosis), malnutrition, and toxemia of pregnancy
can cause edema. Localized edema may result from obstruction of the venous
drainage, injury, or infection.
Symptoms
Symptoms of edema as it relates to chronic kidney failure can include swelling
and puffiness, especially in the hands, ankles, face, and eyelids. In addition
to swelling, the patient may have:
Signs and Tests
You should provide the doctor with a description of your symptoms and with
your medical history. The doctor will want to check the amount of protein in
your blood and urine if he or she suspects the edema was caused by kidney failure.
Treatment
Treatment will focus on correcting the underlying cause of the edema. If the
underlying cause of the edema is kidney failure, treatment may include medication
such as diuretics (water pills) or dialysis. Your diet may also be changed to
include restrictions on salt and water intake. Excess fluid causes weight gain.
Weighing yourself daily can help monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.
Diuretic drugs, which make the kidneys eliminate excess salt and water, often
produce an immediate improvement. Edema caused by varicose veins or pregnancy
can be prevented by wearing elastic stockings. Edema of the ankles may be eliminated
by lying down with the feet raised.
Expectations
The prognosis for success with edema depends on discovering the underlying
cause and treating it. Some causes are fairly simple and can be cured. Others,
like chronic kidney failure, are more complex and need ongoing treatment.
Tips
- Be sure your doctor has your complete medical history. Stay in contact with
him or her if you have been diagnosed for a disease that causes edema.
- Call your doctor if new symptoms develop or if your edema does not show
signs of improvement.
