Edema in general is defined as partial or localized retention of fluid in body tissues, generally occurring in the hands, legs, ankles, and feet. Dr. Augusto Saavedra, a nephrologist at our institution, mentions that when edema is present, it should be considered that a poor redistribution of 60% of the water that makes up the human body is occurring or, in any case, fluid is not being eliminated correctly through urine. Next, our specialist gives us more information on the subject.

Symptoms

Depending on the magnitude, some of the symptoms that occur regularly are:

• Swelling or inflammation of the tissue under the skin, especially in the legs.
• Shiny skin
• Presence of a small depression in the skin (fovea) after pressing for several seconds
• Reddish coloration, in some cases
• Pain or difficulty walking
• Weariness, among others

Complications

If the edema is not treated properly, the following complications may occur:

• Locally: skin irritation, severe pain and / or cellulite development
• Generally (Anasarca): If the edema progresses, pulmonary congestion can occur with the presence of a feeling of suffocation, complications when breathing, walking or climbing stairs. On the other hand, there may be an increase in the volume of the abdomen, heart malfunction, altered blood pressure, among other complications.

Fluid retention or edema may be a signal of:

• Heart failure
• State of cirrhosis of the liver
• Nephrotic syndrome with or without renal failure
• Advanced kidney failure with decreased urine volume
• Low protein malnutrition (little protein in the body)
• Poor venous circulation (varicose veins)
• Thrombosis
• Side effect of medications

Treatment

The treatment is decided according to the cause that generates the edema. It is important to bear in mind that self-medication with diuretics is not adequate until there is a clear diagnosis, which must be provided by a specialist.

Dr. Augusto Saavedra
Nephrologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma