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Oedema is a condition where fluid accumulates in the tissues, particularly in the legs, feet, or ankles. Although oedema can affect anyone, it is more common in pregnant women and adults aged 65 and above. Treatment typically includes lifestyle adjustments such as exercise and diet.
By Able Health I Medically reviewed by Dr. Alireza Estedlal
Page last reviewed: February 2024 I Next review due: February 2026
Oedema refers to swelling that occurs when fluid is trapped in the tissues. It mostly affects the legs, feet, or ankles, but can also occur in other parts of the body, including the abdomen, face, and hands.
While oedema can affect anyone, it primarily occurs in pregnant women and adults aged 65 or over.
Oedema is relatively common due to its wide range of potential causes. Mild oedema often resolves on its own, so the exact frequency of the condition is difficult to determine.
Oedema causes certain areas of the body to swell, making it harder to carry out day-to-day activities. Simple adjustments, such as raising the swollen area or walking around after standing or sitting for an extended period, can ease swelling and improve comfort.
In some cases, oedema may indicate an underlying medical problem. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms.
The primary sign of oedema is swelling, where part of the body enlarges due to trapped fluid in the tissues. Although it can occur anywhere, it is most commonly seen in the feet, legs, and ankles.
Common symptoms include:
After diagnosing oedema, your doctor will determine the cause of the fluid build-up. Possible causes include:
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Book an appointmentTo diagnose oedema, your healthcare provider will conduct a physical exam, checking for swelling in areas where the skin appears stretched or shiny. Additional tests may be performed to determine the underlying cause.
Oedema grading is a scale used by medical professionals to assess the severity of oedema and estimate the amount of fluid in the tissues. The grading is based on how long it takes for a pit (or dimple) to disappear after pressure is applied to the swollen area.
The grading scale includes:
Oedema treatment depends on its cause, particularly when associated with an underlying condition. Possible treatments include:
In addition to addressing the underlying cause, the following steps can help prevent fluid accumulation:
Oedema is often linked to excessive salt intake, as salt can lead to water retention, causing fluid to seep into the tissues. Reducing your intake of salty foods can help improve the condition.
Oedema can be either temporary or long-term, depending on the cause. In most cases, swelling lasts for a few days. The first two days may be the most painful, but symptoms should begin to subside by the third day. Adhering to your treatment plan will help reduce the swelling, but you should contact your doctor if it persists for several days.
While preventing oedema may be difficult if it results from underlying medical conditions like heart failure or kidney disease, your healthcare provider will help you manage your symptoms.
If oedema is related to high salt intake, reducing your consumption of salty foods can help. Moving around regularly and avoiding long periods of sitting or standing can also prevent fluid from accumulating in the tissues.
You should always seek medical advice if you experience swelling. Left untreated, oedema can worsen and lead to serious health complications. Depending on the underlying cause, oedema may be temporary or permanent, but treatments are available to manage the condition.
To ease swelling, follow these steps:
Protect the swollen areas from injury, as damage to the skin over the swollen area can take longer to heal and is more prone to infection.
Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
Oedema is a common condition with varying degrees of severity. Swelling during pregnancy is normal, especially as the due date approaches. Mild cases of oedema often resolve on their own, but more severe swelling may require medication or other treatments.
Consult your doctor for a thorough examination if swelling occurs unexpectedly and you are not pregnant, as oedema could indicate an underlying medical issue. Early diagnosis and treatment improve the chances of a positive outcome.