Preventing the causes of edema and herbal remedies for treating pitting and non-pitting edema.
Edema
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What is Edema?
Diagnosing Edema
What Causes Edema?
Help for Edema
More Information on Edema
What is Edema?
Edema is the noticeable swelling resulting from fluid accumulation in certain body tissues. It is most commonly found in the feet, ankles and legs although it may also affect the face, hands and other parts of the body and body organs. Pregnant women and older adults are often affected with this condition, but it can happen to anyone.
The swelling is brought about by the accumulation of excess fluid beneath the skin in the spaces within the body tissues that are outside of the blood vessels. These spaces are called interstitial spaces or compartments.
Diagnosing Edema
The diagnosis of pitting and non-pitting edema are determined by the symptoms on physical examination. The doctor will examine the skin over the swollen area to check whether it may be stretched or shiny. By pushing gently on the swollen area for approximately 15 seconds, a dimple or indentation may be caused. Additional tests such as a urine test, blood test, a chest X-ray and electrocardiogram (ECG) may also be performed to confirm the cause of the edema.
Edema itself is usually a symptom of an underlying condition and can be noticed as swelling or puffiness of your face, hands, feet, legs, or around your eyes. Amongst others edema can indicate disease of the heart, liver, thyroid, lymphatic system or kidneys (causing salt retention).
If you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, redness or heat in a swollen edematous area, or a swelling of only one limb, consult a doctor immediately. Also, pregnant women who notice signs of edema should seek medical help. Because edema can be a symptom of a serious underlying disorder, and can cause serious consequences itself, it is always important to seek medical advice.
What Causes Edema?
There are many factors that can contribute to the causes of edema. Since it is often related to an underlying condition, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis to be sure of the cause.
Help for Edema
Depending on the causes of edema and if its temporary or permanent, treating edema usually focuses on treating the condition that is causing it. A low dose of a diuretic (water pill) may be prescribed to reduce the swelling and help you expel the excess fluid, but it is important to remember this just treats the symptom and is not necessarily addressing the cause.
If a blocked or damaged blood vessel is suspected as one of the causes of edema surgery may be needed to improve the flow of blood. Treating edema should include protecting any swollen, edematous areas of the body from pressure, injury and extreme temperatures. The skin over swollen areas becomes more fragile over time. Cuts, scrapes and burns in areas that have edema take much longer to heal and are open to infection.
More Information on Edema
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