Fluid retention, or edema, can be caused by poor diet, certain medications, and illnesses. Excess sodium and a lack of certain nutrients can also contribute. Serious conditions such as kidney, liver, and heart disease can also cause fluid retention. Women may experience edema due to hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy. A doctor should be consulted for proper diagnosis.
A poor diet, certain medications, and illnesses are all common causes of fluid retention, also known as edema. Especially in women, hormonal changes can even lead to fluid retention. Some of the causes of edema can be corrected by simply making lifestyle or dietary changes, while others are related to serious underlying medical problems.
Fluid retention occurs when, for a variety of reasons, the body doesn’t release excess fluid properly. Excess sodium is one of the most common causes of fluid retention. If diet is the issue, high-sodium foods such as soups, canned vegetables, and deli meats should be avoided. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol can also help.
Another common cause of fluid retention is a lack of certain nutrients that help the body get rid of excess fluid. Vitamins B1, B5 and B6 are believed to aid in this process. Some medications can also cause fluid retention. Steroids and medications for diabetes and high blood pressure are all common culprits.
Fluid retention can sometimes be traced to serious conditions and diseases such as kidney, liver and heart disease. When the heart isn’t working properly, for example, the body sometimes overcompensates by retaining excess fluid. This can lead to swelling in the abdomen, legs or lungs, depending on which area of the heart is affected.
Kidney failure usually causes fluid retention that occurs around the eye area and in the legs. When the kidneys don’t work properly, they don’t release adequate amounts of sodium and fluid. The swelling comes from excess fluid not being released.
Another serious cause of fluid retention is cirrhosis of the liver. This disease causes congestion of the liver. As a result, the blood vessels entering the liver are backed up. In turn, this causes bloating or swelling in the feet.
A host of other problems can cause temporary fluid retention. Standing for hours, for example, can cause fluid to build up in the lower legs and ankles. A severe sunburn or other burn can even cause fluid retention. This happens because the injured skin responds by retaining fluid and swelling.
In women, fluid retention can be caused by hormonal changes. Birth control pills and other estrogen-containing medications sometimes lead to edema. During pregnancy, women may retain excess fluids that are supplied to the fetus. This swelling is often seen in the lower legs, feet, hands, or face.
The causes of fluid retention are many and should not be self-diagnosed. A doctor can better pinpoint the cause. Simple blood and urine tests are usually used to diagnose the causes of fluid retention.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
