Edema is swelling that occurs when too much fluid becomes trapped in the tissues of the body, particularly the skin.
There are different causes and types of edema. Pulmonary edema, for example, affects the lungs, while pedal edema causes swelling in the feet.
Edema usually starts slowly, but onset can be sudden. It is a common problem, but it can also be the sign of a serious condition.
It most often occurs in the skin, especially on the hands, arms, ankles, legs, and feet. However, it can also affect the muscles, bowels, lungs, eyes, and brain.
The condition mainly occurs in older adults and women who are pregnant, but anyone can experience edema.
Symptoms depend on the underlying cause, but swelling, tightness, and pain are common.
A person with edema may notice: Swollen, stretched, and shiny skin, skin that retains a dimple after being pressed for a few seconds, puffiness of the ankles, face, or eyes, aching body parts and stiff joints, weight gain or loss, fuller hand and neck veins higher pulse rate and blood pressure.
Others are, headache, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits
nausea and vomiting, onfusion and lethargy and visual abnormalities
Symptoms depend on the underlying cause, the type of edema, and where the edema is located.
Diuretics are a type of medication. They help get rid of excess fluid by increasing the rate of urine production by the kidneys. Different types work in different ways.
