Water retention, also called “edema” is an accumulation of water within a tissue.

What is water retention?

Definition of water retention

Water retention is a accumulation of water within a tissue of the organism, causing its swelling. Water retention is more commonly referred to as edema. These swellings can develop in a well-identified part of the body, or can be found in different places (tissues) of the body.

The fluid, which causes the edema, usually accumulates in the lower part of the leg or on the ankles. In addition, the edema can also be “internal”, developing within organs, such as the lungs for example.

Beyond swelling and swelling in the skin, edema can also be at the source:

• an skin discoloration ;
• an temperature increase in the affected area;
• of the numbness ;
• a stiffness some members;
• a weight gain.

Different types of water retention are to be distinguished. The majority locations are the feet and ankles. However, other forms are also known:

• cerebral edema ;
• pulmonary edema ;
• macular edema (touching the eyes).

Causes of water retention

Swelling, and edema, are “normal” consequences widely observed in the legs and ankles, following an sitting long term or a static standing position over a substantial period.

However, other origins and / or conditions are more involved in the accumulation of fluid. Among these, we can note:

• la pregnancy ;
• kidney disease (nephropathies);
• heart problems (heart disease);
• of the chronic pulmonary pathologies ;
• of the thyroid disorders ;
• la malnutrition ;
• certains pharmaceuticals, such as corticosteroids, or even those used against hypertension;
• la birth control pills.

Other, less common causes can also be the cause of water retention: the formation of blood clots or varicose veins, surgery or even following a major burn.

Water retention in pregnancy

La pregnancy is a factor in the development of edema. Explanations can be provided on this subject, in particular the secretion of hormones (estrogen and progesterone), promoting water retention. But also vasodilation (increase in the caliber of blood vessels) or weight gain.

Symptoms and treatments for water retention

Symptoms of fluid retention.

The first symptom of water retention is visible swelling, generally in the lower limbs (legs, ankles, etc.) but which can also affect other parts of the body.

Internal edema can be likened to bloating (especially in the stomach when water retention affects the stomach, intestines, or even the liver).

In the context of edema in the face, a “plump” or “puffy” appearance may be felt by the patient.

Due to the buildup of fluid inside the body, weight gain can also be associated with fluid retention.

How to prevent and treat these swelling?

The prevention of water retention is mainly about limiting the static sitting or standing position for a long time.

In the context of the observation of edema following drug treatment, consult the doctor and explain these aspects to him, in order to reassess the prescription of the treatment.

In the majority of cases the edema arrives and disappears quickly and spontaneously.

If the symptoms of water retention persist over time, then it is advisable to consult the doctor as soon as possible.

Advice can then be prescribed within the framework of the duration of the symptoms:

• la weight loss, in the context of overweight;
• l’daily physical activity more important (walking, swimming, cycling, etc.);
• promote leg movements 3 to 4 times a day to promote blood circulation;
• avoid static positions for long periods.

If the signs persist beyond these recommendations, drug treatments then exist: diuretics.

Dietary modifications may also be recommended in the context of water retention. in particular reducing salt consumption, hydrating more abundantly, promoting protein intake, favoring foods with draining power (grapefruit, artichoke, celery, etc.), etc.

Lymphatic drainage is also a solution in managing fluid retention. Passive drainage is then differentiated from active drainage. In the first case, it is carried out through massage by a physiotherapist. In the second, it is particularly the result of physical activity.