Anasarca is a widespread swelling in seriously ill patients caused by edema. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause, and common causes include organ failure and malnutrition. Diuretics and compression garments can help manage the swelling, but treatment should be supervised by a doctor. Mild swelling in hot weather is common, but persistent swelling or other symptoms should be addressed.
Anasarca is a generalized swelling over the whole body seen in seriously ill patients. It is a form of edema, swelling caused by the leakage of cellular fluid and can vary in intensity. Some patients have only low-level swelling and mild discomfort, while others may be significantly and visibly swollen, with pain caused by the edema. Treatment options are based on addressing the underlying cause and providing supportive care to make the patient more comfortable.
Common causes of anasarca include organ failure and malnutrition. Congestive heart failure, kidney failure, and liver failure are known to lead to edema, as they interfere with the circulation and expression of fluids in the body. Negative drug reactions can also sometimes cause this symptom, as can excessive intravenous fluid administration. Patients are monitored closely if edema is a potential complication of medical treatment so anasarca can be quickly identified and addressed.
The swelling usually starts in the torso and can spread to the extremities. The swollen skin should feel cool to the touch and will swell, meaning that when a finger is pressed into the skin, the crinkled shape left behind will stay in place, without the skin falling back. The reduced skin elasticity seen with anasarca may also be associated with dry, flaky skin. Swelling all over the body can cause clothes to fit uncomfortable, and when undressing, patients may notice lines and streaks from where their clothing presses against the swollen fabric throughout the day.
If anasarca develops, it indicates that the management of the underlying medical problem is inadequate and the treatment plan needs to be adjusted. In patients awaiting treatments such as transplants, this form of edema is a sign of worsening symptoms and an increased urgency in the need for an organ donor. Diuretic medications can be used to try to get some of the fluid out and compression garments can be used to manage the swelling and keep the patient more comfortable. This treatment should be supervised by a doctor, as complications can arise when edema is managed too quickly or aggressively.
Some tissue swelling, especially of the extremities, is very common in hot weather. People who notice mild swelling with no other symptoms on a hot day should note that the swelling decreases in cooler temperatures. If swelling persists even when it’s not hot, or if patients develop symptoms such as shortness of breath, it may be a sign of a medical problem and should be addressed.
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