Alternate names :: Anasarca, Swelling
Edema is the accumulation of fluid in spaces between the cells in the soft tissue of the body. Any part of the body may develop edema. The swelling can be localized in the face, arms, and neck, or may involve the legs and ankles-a condition known as dependent edema. Periorbital edema is swelling around the eyes. Corneal stroma is edema of the cornea. Generalized edema is known as anasarca. Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs in approximately 5 percent of pregnant women, causing high blood pressure, fluid accumulation in the tissues, and albuminuria (protein in the urine).
Edema Symptoms
The main symptoms of edema are:-
- Abdominal bloating
- Swollen feet
- Swollen ankles
- Swollen arms or legs
- Water retention
- Generalized edema
- Ring tightness
- Puffiness
Edema Causes
The underlying causes of edema may be serious. Edema can indicate a much more profound illness, such as AIDS, cirrhosis of the liver, congestive heart failure, diabetes, or vena cava syndrome (narrowing of the vein that supplies blood from the upper body to the heart). More simply, edema can occur as the result of infection or prolonged bed rest. Fluid retention can also be caused by allergies.
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Home Remedies for Edema
- Alfalfa is a good source of important minerals. It also contains chlorophyll, a potent detoxifier. Take 2,000 to 3,000 milligrams daily, in divided doses.
- Rose hips contain bioflavonoids helpful in the treatment of edema.
- For protein, eat eggs, broiled white fish, and broiled skinless chicken or turkey. Consume small amounts of buttermilk, cottage cheese, kefir, and low-fat yogurt.
- Eat a diet that is high in fiber.
- Horse chestnut has been shown to reduce post-surgical edema.
- Hawthorn berries, horsetail, juniper, and uva ursi are diuretics. By increasing the output of urine, they help to counteract edema.
- Exercise daily and take hot baths or saunas twice a week.
- If you have swelling of the legs and feet, sit with your feet up as often as you can. Wear support hose for swelling in the legs.
- Avoid alcohol, animal protein, beef, caffeine, chocolate, dairy products (except for those listed above), dried shellfish, fried foods, gravies, olives, pickles, salt, soy sauce, tobacco, white flour, and white sugar.
- Use kelp to supply needed minerals.
Useful References