Edema
Edema is the medical term for swelling caused by the accumulation of fluid in the body's tissues.
Overview
While edema usually occurs in the feet, ankles, and legs, it can involve your entire body.
Causes of Edema
Several factors and underlying health conditions can lead to edema, including:
- Eating too much salt
- Sunburn
- Heart failure
- Kidney disease
- Liver problems from cirrhosis
- Pregnancy
- Problems with lymph nodes, especially after a mastectomy
- Certain medications
- Standing or walking for extended periods in warm weather
Management
To help reduce swelling, your health care provider may recommend the following steps:
- Keeping your legs raised while sitting
- Wearing support stockings
- Limiting dietary salt intake
- Taking a diuretic, also known as a water pill