Oedema
Oedema is an abnormal build-up of fluids in the body tissues and under the skin. Swelling of the legs, feet, and ankles is a common symptom that becomes more likely as you get older. Swelling is also common in looser tissues, such as around the eyes. Pressing on the area may make a temporary dent in your skin (pitting oedema). This fluid may also accumulate in your lungs (pulmonary oedema).
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Certain medical conditions, such as heart failure, liver or kidney disease, and cancer.
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Weak leg blood vessels.
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An injury.
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Pregnancy.
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Medicines.
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Being obese.
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Low protein levels in the blood.
Hot weather may make oedema worse. Oedema is usually painless. Your skin may look swollen or shiny.
Follow these instructions at home:
Medicines
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Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as instructed by your healthcare provider.
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Your healthcare provider may prescribe a medicine to help your body get rid of extra water (diuretic). Take this medicine if you are told to take it.
Eating and drinking
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Eat a low-salt (low-sodium) diet to reduce fluid as instructed by your healthcare provider. Sometimes, eating less salt may reduce swelling.
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Depending on the cause of your swelling, you may need to limit how much fluid you drink (fluid restriction).
General instructions
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Raise (elevate) the injured area above the level of your heart while you are sitting or lying down.
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Do not sit still or stand for long periods of time.
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Do not wear tight clothing. Do not wear garters on your upper legs.
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Exercise your legs to get your circulation going. This helps to move the fluid back into your blood vessels, and it may help the swelling go down.
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Wear compression stockings as instructed by your healthcare provider. These stockings help to prevent blood clots and reduce swelling in your legs. It is important that these are the correct size. These stockings should be prescribed by your healthcare provider to prevent possible injuries.
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If elastic bandages or wraps are recommended, use them as instructed by your healthcare provider.
Contact a healthcare provider if:
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Your oedema does not get better with treatment.
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You have heart, liver, or kidney disease and have symptoms of oedema.
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You have sudden and unexplained weight gain.
Get help right away if:
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You develop shortness of breath or chest pain.
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You cannot breathe when you lie down.
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You develop pain, redness, or warmth in the swollen areas.
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You have heart, liver, or kidney disease and suddenly get oedema.
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You have a fever and your symptoms suddenly get worse.
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Do not wait to see if the symptoms will go away.
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Do not drive yourself to the hospital.
Summary
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Oedema is an abnormal build-up of fluids in the body tissues and under the skin.
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Eating too much salt (sodium)and being on your feet or sitting for a long time can cause oedema in your legs, feet, and ankles.
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Raise (elevate) the injured area above the level of your heart while you are sitting or lying down.
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Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about diet and how much fluid you can drink.
This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.
