Edema is the medical term for swelling caused by excess fluid accumulating in the body’s tissues. It is not a disease itself but a clinical sign that can result from many underlying conditions, ranging from temporary lifestyle factors to serious systemic illnesses.

🌍 Definition

• Edema: Abnormal buildup of fluid in the interstitial spaces (between cells) of the body.
• Common Sites: Feet, ankles, legs, hands, face, and abdomen.
• Types:
  • Peripheral edema: Swelling in limbs.
  • Pulmonary edema: Fluid in the lungs.
  • Cerebral edema: Fluid in the brain.
  • Generalized edema: Widespread swelling throughout the body.

🔑 Causes

• Lifestyle/Environmental:
  • Standing or sitting too long.
  • High salt intake.
  • Pregnancy.
• Medical Conditions:
  • Heart failure → fluid backs up in legs/lungs.
  • Kidney disease → impaired fluid balance.
  • Liver disease (cirrhosis) → abdominal fluid buildup (ascites).
  • Venous insufficiency → pooling in legs.
  • Lymphatic obstruction → impaired drainage (lymphedema).
• Medications: Steroids, NSAIDs, blood pressure drugs, diabetes medications.

📚 Symptoms

• Swelling or puffiness under the skin.
• Shiny, stretched skin.
• Pitting edema: A dimple remains after pressing the swollen area.
• Heaviness or discomfort in limbs.
• Shortness of breath (if pulmonary edema).

🛠 Diagnosis & Management

• Diagnosis: Physical exam, medical history, blood tests, imaging, or ultrasound.
• Management:
  • Lifestyle changes (reduce salt, elevate legs, compression stockings).
  • Treat underlying condition (heart, kidney, liver disease).
  • Diuretics (“water pills”) may be prescribed.

✨ Summary

Edema is swelling caused by fluid retention in tissues, often linked to lifestyle, medications, or systemic disease. It can be mild and temporary, but persistent or severe edema requires medical evaluation.

Sources: Mayo Clinic on Edema, Cleveland Clinic overview of Edema, Johns Hopkins Medicine guide on Edema.