Peripheral edema

Edema: Accumulation of Fluid in the Extremities

Edema refers to the medical condition characterized by the excessive accumulation of fluid within the tissues, most commonly observed in the upper (arms and hands) and lower extremities (legs and feet). This buildup of fluid can lead to swelling and discomfort and is often an indicator of underlying health issues.

Swelling in the leg due to edema.

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Swelling in the hand as a result of fluid accumulation.

Causes of Edema

Edema can develop for a variety of reasons, including:

• Heart Conditions: Poor heart function can result in fluid buildup, especially in the legs.
• Kidney Disease: The kidneys, when not functioning correctly, may not eliminate enough fluid and sodium from the blood, leading to edema.
• Liver Disease: Cirrhosis or other liver conditions can cause fluid to accumulate in the body.
• Pregnancy: Fluid retention is common during pregnancy and can lead to mild swelling.
• Medications: Some medications, including high blood pressure drugs, steroids, and NSAIDs, may cause edema.
• Infections and Injuries: Localized swelling can occur at infection or injury sites.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Beyond visible swelling, individuals with edema may experience:

• Tightness or reduced flexibility in the affected area
• A feeling of heaviness or discomfort
• Pitting (when pressing the swollen area leaves an indent that takes some time to fill back)

Diagnosis often involves:

• Physical examination
• Medical history review
• Ultrasound or MRI for imaging
• Blood tests and urinalysis to check for underlying conditions

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A medical professional examining a patient for edema.

Treatment and Management

The approach to treating edema depends on its cause:

• Medications: Diuretics can help increase urine output and reduce fluid buildup.
• Compression: Wearing compression stockings or sleeves can prevent fluid from accumulating.
• Elevation: Raising the affected limb can help drain excess fluid.
• Dietary Changes: Reducing salt intake can help mitigate fluid retention.

Complications

If left untreated, edema can lead to:

• Skin infections or ulcers
• Decreased blood circulation
• Scarring between tissue layers
• Decreased elasticity in affected joints and tissues

Prevention

While not all forms of edema are preventable, the following practices can reduce risks:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular exercise
• A balanced diet with limited salt intake
• Avoiding sitting or standing in one position for extended periods

See Also

• Heart Failure
• Kidney Disease
• Liver Disease
• Deep Vein Thrombosis

References

• Guyton, A.C., & Hall, J.E. Textbook of Medical Physiology. Saunders Elsevier, 2016.
• Kapoor, W.N. Current Diagnosis & Treatment: Cardiology. McGraw-Hill Education, 2019.
• Mayo Clinic: Edema

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