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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:

• redness
  
• heat
  
• pain

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.

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