What is Edema? How to Reduce It?

Edema refers to the swelling that occurs due to the accumulation of fluid in different tissues of the body, particularly in the skin. Edema can develop for many reasons. However, due to the effect of gravity, it is most noticeable in the feet, ankles, and legs. During the sleep process at night, the edema in the legs spreads to other parts of the body, including the face. Upon waking in the morning, the edema is typically more pronounced in the face and hands. As daily activities begin, by the evening, the edema fluid moves down to the legs, and swelling becomes visible in these areas.

The most common diseases that lead to edema include heart failure, kidney failure, excessive protein leakage in urine from the kidneys (nephrotic syndrome), liver failure (such as cirrhosis), underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), medications (such as some blood pressure, diabetes, chemotherapy, and pain-relief medications), blood clot formation in the leg veins (venous thrombosis) or the presence of varicose veins, lymphedema (due to infection, tumor, or surgical causes), skin infections in the legs (such as cellulitis). Additionally, excessive salt intake, obesity, sitting still with the feet hanging down for long periods (such as long trips, working while standing or sitting for extended hours), pregnancy, and edema can also develop before and during menstruation in women.

Who is Affected? Who is at Risk?

People who are sedentary, obese, diabetic, consume a diet rich in salt and carbohydrates, have a depressed or tense mood and temperament, and women nearing menopause are at higher risk for developing edema. This is due to the slowing of circulation, water retention in the body’s fat tissue, hormonal changes, and other unknown mechanisms.

Additionally, edema may develop in individuals with heart, kidney, and liver failure, circulation problems in the legs (such as venous thrombosis, varicose veins, lymphedema), and those using certain medications such as anti-rheumatic pain relievers, high blood sugar (diabetes mellitus), or high blood pressure (hypertension).

What Are the Symptoms of Edema?

The symptoms of edema can vary depending on where it occurs.

• Shortness of breath if fluid accumulates in the lungs or heart sac
• Abdominal bloating and indigestion if fluid accumulates in the abdomen
• Skin stretching and increased shininess
• Redness and pain in the skin of the legs due to infection (such as cellulitis)
• Swelling in the hands, face, and legs, along with difficulty moving those areas
• A temporary indentation may appear when pressing on the swollen area with a finger.

How to Reduce Edema?

As with any illness, the treatment for edema is planned based on its underlying cause. For individuals without a known disease, especially those with edema in the legs, restricting salt and carbohydrate intake, resting with the legs elevated, avoiding prolonged immobility, and ensuring daily fluid intake of 1.5-2 liters are recommended. Additionally, applying bandages to the legs, massaging, and, if necessary, using diuretic medications may be helpful upon doctor's recommendation.

If an underlying condition exists (such as kidney disease, heart failure, allergies, infection, medication use, etc.), medical treatments must be carried out under the supervision of the relevant specialist.

Which Diseases Cause Edema? Can Edema Be a Symptom of Certain Diseases?

Heart and kidney failure resulting from uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension, as well as cirrhosis caused by various factors (such as infections like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C), are significant diseases that can lead to widespread edema throughout the body.

Can Edema Lead to Other Diseases?

Intense edema in the legs can hinder a patient's ability to walk and perform daily activities. Over time, it can lead to issues like skin cracking, color changes, infections in the affected area, or fluid leakage from the skin.

Can Edema Be Prevented? Do You Have Any Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations?

Reducing salt and carbohydrate intake, exercising regularly, avoiding staying in the same position for long periods, taking short walks or moving arms and legs every 1-2 hours during office work or long travels, and protecting swollen areas from additional pressure, injury, and excessive heat are important.