6 Recommendations Against Edema

Edema that occurs in different parts of the body increases during the summer months. Anadolu Health Center's Internal Medicine and Nephrology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Enes Murat Atasoyu stated that edema can be a sign of various diseases and emphasized the need for thorough investigation of the underlying causes of edema. "Additionally, factors such as lack of movement, excess weight, diabetes, and a diet high in salt and carbohydrates trigger edema. Edema is more commonly seen in individuals with depression," he explained.

During the hot summer months, the heat can cause the blood vessels to dilate. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Atasoyu highlighted that this dilation, especially in the legs and feet, slows the return of blood to the heart, leading to temporary edema in these areas due to the effect of gravity. He stated, "In conditions such as heart, liver, thyroid, and kidney failure, edema can frequently occur, and it may also increase due to the effects of certain medications and pregnancy."

Edema is More Noticeable in the Face in the Morning and in the Legs in the Evening

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Enes Murat Atasoyu noted that in kidney, heart, liver, and thyroid diseases, edema can develop throughout the body. "However, edema is particularly noticeable in the legs due to the effect of gravity. During the night, when the body is in a horizontal position, the edema in the legs can spread to other parts of the body and even to the face," he said. He explained that this is why people often wake up with more edema in their face and hands. "Throughout the day, as people move, the fluid tends to pool in the legs by evening, causing swelling in those areas again."

Edema is More Common in Individuals Who Move Less

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Atasoyu pointed out that there is no significant difference in the formation of edema based on age or gender. "However, the idiopathic type, which appears without a specific cause, is predominantly observed in women, especially before menopause," he noted. He emphasized that edema is also commonly seen in individuals who are sedentary, overweight, diabetic, have a diet high in salt and carbohydrates, and those with a depressive or anxious mood.

Foods That Help Reduce Edema

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Atasoyu stated that foods like spinach, cabbage, arugula, mint, asparagus, parsley, beets, grapes, green beans, pineapple, zucchini, onions, leeks, garlic, and whole grains rich in B vitamins and iron help to eliminate edema. However, he warned that excessive consumption should be avoided due to potential interactions with diuretic medications.

Avoid Using Diuretics Recklessly

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Atasoyu warned that some herbal products sold as diuretics can harm the kidneys. "It should not be forgotten that recklessly used medications and treatment methods can damage other organs in the body," he cautioned. He stressed the importance of consulting a doctor regarding edema and explained the conditions that can lead to edema in the body:

Conditions that disrupt interstitial fluid flow balance
Capillary damage
Infections affecting the subcutaneous area and blood vessels
Venous obstruction
Decreased cardiac output
Diseases leading to protein loss
Excessive salt intake
Use of certain medications
Allergic conditions
Pre-menstrual period and pregnancy in women

6 Recommendations Against Edema

For individuals without a known significant disease, especially to alleviate edema in the legs:

Limit salt and carbohydrate intake.
Elevate the legs while resting.
Avoid prolonged immobility.
Ensure daily fluid intake of about 1.5-2 liters.
Apply bandages to the legs or perform massage as advised by a doctor.
Use diuretic medications when necessary.

Last Updated Date: 04 April 2018

Publication Date: 06 April 2018