Edema is a swelling caused by excessive fluid accumulation in body tissues. It may be associated with a feeling of tightness and weight gain. Edema can occur anywhere in the body. The legs, feet, hands and arms are most commonly affected. Common causes of edema include heart or kidney disease, injury, infection, certain medications, and pregnancy.
What medications can cause edema?
Medications that can cause edema include various blood pressure-lowering drugs such as calcium channel blockers. Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs from the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac can also cause fluid ketis accumulation in the tissues. The same applies, for example, to glitazones (used to treat diabetes), corticosteroids (strong anti-inflammatory drugs), and some antidepressants.
How dangerous is edema?
Why does edema form?
Edema occurs when excess fluid leaks from the blood vessels into the surrounding tissue. The reason for this can be increased pressure in the vessels, a disease-related higher permeability of the vessel walls, protein deficiency or a disturbed lymphatic drainage. Through such mechanisms, for example, high blood pressure, cardiac insufficiency, liver or kidney disease, pregnancy and certain medications can lead to the formation of edema.
What can be done against edema?
How does edema resolve?
Edema disappears when the body removes the excess fluid from the tissue via the lymphatic system and excretes it via the kidneys. Supportive measures include exercise, an appropriate diet and fluid intake, the wearing of compression stockings (in the case of swollen legs) and possibly the use of diuretics.
Is edema curable?
Edema is curable if the underlying cause (e.g., heart failure, kidney disease) can be treated. To address the water retention directly, physicians recommend, for example, draining medications, compression treatment, and/or lifestyle changes, depending on the case.
What is edema in the knee?
What is edema in the eye?
Edema in the eye (macular edema) is an accumulation of fluid in the macula – the point of sharpest vision on the retina. It can be caused, for example, by inflammation, diabetes, a vein occlusion in the retina, or eye injury. Without treatment, macular edema can lead to vision problems or even loss of vision.
What is edema of the bone?
Bone edema (marrow edema) is an accumulation of fluid in the bone marrow, often around the joints. Causes include injury, inflammation, or diseases such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. Bone marrow edema can cause pain, stiffness and restricted movement.
What to do about edema in the legs?
What helps against edema on the face?
That depends on the cause of the edema: In the case of allergies, antihistamines help; in the case of injuries, cold compresses. If the fluid retention is caused by heart or kidney problems, diuretics can help. General measures to relieve facial edema include a low-salt diet, elevating the head when sleeping, adequate hydration, cold compresses, and massage.
What is angioneurotic edema?
What to do about edema during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant and suffer from water retention, you should exercise regularly, e.g. swim or take light walks, elevate your legs and drink enough water. This promotes blood circulation and reduces fluid retention in the tissues. Wear comfortable shoes, avoid standing for long periods, and make sure you eat a balanced diet rich in protein. Always seek medical advice if swelling is severe or persistent, as it may be a sign of a serious pregnancy complication such as preeclampsia.
