Edema can occur in any area of the body and is characterized by fluid retention. It is normally due to an underlying reason and can be physiological. Any part of the body can be affected, it is caused by interstitial pressure problems, lymphatic obstruction, sodium retention or inflammation. Edema cure is based on dealing with the underlying cause and focusing on that area.
Disturbances in the pressure of the capillaries can cause fluid to leak into the surrounding tissue. The excretory system compensates for this loss by retaining fluid and this leads to more leakage and an excess of fluid in the body. Some of the causes of this condition are excess amounts of sodium, long periods of sitting, extreme temperature, congestive heart failure and it can occur during pregnancy.
Where blood vessels or lymph nodes are lacking, poor lymphatic drainage is noted. Some of the most common places this condition occurs is in the ankles and legs and is prevalent during pregnancy. Deep vein thrombosis, congestive heart failure and kidney problems all exhibit this problem. When the kidneys are involved a person will have swelling around their eyes and in their legs as well.
There is also pain in the area due to one’s skin stretching and it appears to be distended and shiny. Pitting is noticed when pressure is applied to the swollen part. It can also occur within the body on internal organs like the heart and lungs.
Diagnosis is based on the specific cause and area. Pattern of appearance, duration and onset are very important in diagnosis. A CT scan or ultrasound of the abdomen is done to rule out any abnormalities of the kidney or liver and an echocardiogram is done to assess the heart. If deep vein thrombosis is suspected a doppler study is done on the lower limbs and a chest x-ray if pulmonary edema is suspected.
Support stockings are often prescribed to aid in the fluid distribution and to ease discomfort. Elevation of the affected part above the heart is prescribed for a few minutes at a time and sleeping with the foot of the bed elevated makes for more of a restful night. Eating a low sodium diet is recommended and starting with mild to moderate exercise will help the fluid movement in the affected part. Proper identification is the first step to treatment.
Diuretics offer temporary relief, but natural medicine modalities teach your kidneys, lymph system and bladder to function optimally. Ayurvedic herbal remedies work by using ingredients that safely and swiftly eliminate excess fluid from the body. Symptoms are relieved such as bloating, pitting and swelling.
Herbs maintain interstitial pressure allowing the fluids within them to be balanced. Finding and correcting the underlying cause will bring lasting relief of symptoms. Teaching the organs to function at optimal levels will ensure lasting relief. Finding the right edema cure will not only treat the area affected but it will treat the body as a whole.