How can edema form

Pulmonary edema occurs when fluid collects in air sacs of the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. It can develop suddenly or gradually, and it is…. Edema refers to swelling caused by excess fluid. When swollen skin remains indented after being pressed, this is called pitting edema. It is most…. A look at anasarca, a condition that causes a general swelling of the body. Included is detail on how it is diagnosed and the outlook for the….

Hypervolemia is a condition in which there is too much fluid in the blood. It is also known as fluid overload. Learn more about the causes. Deep vein thrombosis is the formation of blood clots in a deep vein that can be fatal. Read about the causes, symptoms, and treatments here. Everything you need to know about edema. What is edema? Share on Pinterest Getty Images. Share on Pinterest Edema, or water retention, causes swelling in the affected part of the body.

Share on Pinterest Wearing compression stockings can help reduce the swelling and discomfort associated with edema. Latest news Could 'cupping' technique boost vaccine delivery?

Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? Related Coverage. What is pulmonary edema? Medically reviewed by University of Illinois. How to identify pitting edema. Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. What is anasarca? Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, M. Hypervolemia: What you need to know about fluid overload. Medically reviewed by Graham Rogers, M. Fluid moves easily between these compartments, and the extent of this movement is determined primarily by the balance between hydrostatic and oncotic pressures.

Hydrostatic pressure refers to the pressure exerted by gravity on a fluid at equilibrium, and tends to cause fluid to filter out into the extravascular compartment. Oncotic pressure is a form of osmotic pressure in which proteins in the plasma pull fluid back into the intravascular compartment.

The lymphatic system then transports this extra fluid back into the intravascular compartment through the thoracic duct. Therefore, any change in the balance of these pressures that results in a net filtration greater than the lymphatic system can effectively transport can cause edema. In addition to pronounced swelling, typically the overlying skin will have a stretched, shiny appearance.

In cases of pitting edema , the skin over the affected area will retain a distinct dimple for 10 to 15 seconds after being depressed. In patients with peripheral edema , the swelling is often worst after extended periods of sitting or standing. Anasarca , or general edema, will present with swelling covering the entire body.

Ascites refers specifically to fluid retention in the peritoneal cavity , and results in distinct swelling of the abdomen. An increase in hydrostatic pressure can occur as a result of heart failure , kidney failure, liver failure or venous obstruction.

Decreased oncotic pressure occurs in patients with malnutrition resulting in an abnormally low level of blood proteins.

In addition, any conditions affecting the permeability of vascular membranes , including inflammation or t issue trauma , can also cause more fluid to "leak" out of the intravascular compartment.

When the body notices that this leaking is happening, the kidneys in turn retain more water and sodium to make up for the loss of fluid, causing more blood to circulate and more leakage to occur. Edema related specifically to the impairment of the lymphatic system in carrying away interstitial fluid is referred to as a lymphedema. Edema itself is not a disease, but a symptom.

Less severe forms of edema can result from lifestyle and general health factors such as:. If left unchecked, peripheral and general edema can result in the overlying skin becoming stretched, developing infections or ulcerating. Also, decreased blood circulation can lead to blood clots in the deep veins of the body, also known as deep vein thrombosis.

Depending on diagnosis, the following precautions may help minimize the risk of developing edema in at-risk patients and to minimize complications in patients already exhibiting symptoms:. Treating edema should always begin with diagnosing and treating the underlying cause.

Depending on the cause, diuretics may be prescribed to increase water output from the kidneys and combining these with a low-sodium diet can help to decrease fluid retention.

Other medications and treatments may be prescribed as well. Edema can happen anywhere in the body but is more common in the extremities: the arms, hands, legs, and feet. Sometimes taking medication can reduce edema, but in order to reduce edema stemming from a disease, the underlying disease must be treated.

Edema has many different causes. It can stem from allergies, bug bites, eating too much salt, being pregnant or having premenstrual symptoms, or even from being in one position too long.

These are usually minor cases and can be easily treated at home. Taking medications such as those for high blood pressure, steroids, estrogens, and some diabetes medications can cause edema. In this case, talk to your doctor to find out if it is something that needs to be addressed.

If edema is caused by underlying diseases or serious allergies, it may be time to go to urgent care or the emergency room. For mild cases of edema, where treatment at home is suggested, there are a few different solutions. Skip to content Las Vegas Vein Center. Edema: Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment. Edema Symptoms and Causes Edema has many different causes. Swollen legs, ankles, and feet can be from congestive heart failure and you need to contact your doctor.