Oedema

What is Oedema?

Oedema is the medical term that refers to swollen feet and legs. The swelling occurs when there is excess fluid in the body’s tissues. Most of this is water and it is held in the spaces between the body cells.

Oedema typically occurs in the feet, but can also develop in the hands, arms, ankles and legs. In more serious cases in can occur in the brain and in the eyes.

Symptoms of Oedema :

The condition can be initially spotted through a progressive inflammation of the feet and legs during the day. After this initial onset, swelling will begin in the morning and worsen throughout the day. If the condition lasts then it can lead to a condition called ‘pitting’. This is when you can press into the skin at the swollen area and it will indent.

Other symptoms to look for are:

• High blood pressure
• Headaches
• Increased urination
• Palpitations
• Swelling at the hands or wrists
• Puffy eyes
• Weight gain
• Aching body parts
• Stiff joints

Causes of Oedema :

When the body is functioning normally, there is a healthy balance struck between the amount of water that is taken in from food and drink, and the amount of water that is discharged from the body – this balance adjusts accordingly depending on the circumstances – for example, if the body is exposed to heat or strenuous exercise then the it will request more water or discharge less water.

People affected by Oedema, usually develop it as a symptom of another condition.  It is common to develop it as a result of kidney disease or lymphoedema. It can also be caused by lifestyle factors such as pregnancy or a high salt intake.

The other causes can be:

• Abusing laxatives, diuretics or drugs
• Usage or birth control or HRT
• Sodium retention
• Varicose veins
• Allergic reaction
• Neuromuscular disorders
• Trauma

Relief and Prevention of Oedema :

As Oedema is usually a symptom of another problem, the best treatment is to identify the initial cause and work from there.

Common treatments include:

• Elevating the swollen area
• Reducing salt intake
• Losing weight if you’re overweight
• Massaging the effected area to promote fluid movement
• Prescription for diuretics in order to increase your output of urine by raising the amount of water and sodium that your kidneys release.
• Invest in proper fitting shoes that allow extra room for swelling.