Edema

Edema (say: eh-dee-mah) is swelling or puffiness of parts of the body. It is caused by water that gets trapped in the tissues of your body. Edema usually happens in the feet, ankles and legs. It also can affect the face and hands. Pregnant women and older adults often get edema, but it can happen to anyone.

Many things can cause edema. Sometimes gravity pulls water down into your legs and feet. Sitting in one place for too long can cause edema of the legs. Eating food with too much salt can make the problem worse.

Congestive heart failure and liver, kidney and thyroid diseases can cause edema. You cannot catch edema from other people. It does not run in families.

Your doctor can tell by examining you whether you have edema. The skin over the swollen area may be stretched and shiny. Pushing gently on the swollen area for about 15 seconds will leave a dimple. If this happens, your doctor might want to do tests to see what is causing the edema.

Edema cannot be cured. The only way to treat edema is to treat the condition that is causing it. The following are some things you can do to keep the swelling down:

Your doctor might want you to take a medicine called a diuretic (say: di-yoo-ret-tik), which is also called a water pill.

It is important to see your doctor if you have edema. If it is not treated, your skin may keep stretching, which can lead to other problems. Call your doctor right away if have edema and you start to have trouble breathing. If you are pregnant and you notice edema, call your doctor as soon as you can.