Edema

Edema
Other names	Oedema, œdema, fluid retention, water retention, dropsy, hydropsy, swelling
"Pitting" edema
Pronunciation	/ɪˈdiːmə/
Specialty	Cardiology, nephrology
Symptoms	Skin which feels tight, area may feel heavy[1]
Usual onset	Sudden or gradual[2]
Types	Generalized, localized[2]
Causes	Venous insufficiency, heart failure, kidney problems, low protein levels, liver problems, deep vein thrombosis, lymphedema[1][2]
Diagnostic method	Based on a physical exam[3]
Treatment	Based on cause[2]

Edema (AmE), also spelled oedema (BrE), and also known as fluid retention, dropsy, hydropsy and swelling, is the build-up of fluid in the body's tissue.^[1] Most commonly, the legs or arms are affected.^[1] Symptoms may include skin that feels tight, the area may feel heavy, and joint stiffness.^[1] Other symptoms depend on the underlying cause.^[2]

Causes may include venous insufficiency, heart failure, kidney problems, low protein levels, liver problems, deep vein thrombosis, infections, angioedema, certain medications, and lymphedema.^[1][2] It may also occur in immobile patients (stroke, spinal cord injury, aging), or with temporary immobility such as prolonged sitting or standing, and during menstruation or pregnancy.^[1] The condition is more concerning if it starts suddenly, or pain or shortness of breath is present.^[2]

Treatment depends on the underlying cause.^[2] If the underlying mechanism involves sodium retention, decreased salt intake and a diuretic may be used.^[2] Elevating the legs and support stockings may be useful for edema of the legs.^[3] Older people are more commonly affected.^[3] The word is from the Greek οἴδημα oídēma meaning 'swelling'.^[4]