The most common cause of oedema, particularly in the legs, is immobility or prolonged standing.
While immobility and prolonged standing are frequently responsible, oedema (also spelled edema) isn't always so straightforward. It can result from a variety of underlying factors affecting fluid balance in the body. Here's a breakdown of common causes, starting with the most frequent:
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Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Gravity pulls fluid into the lower extremities, and if you aren't moving around, your circulatory system has difficulty returning the fluid.
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Venous Insufficiency: When the veins in your legs have trouble sending blood back to your heart, blood can pool and cause swelling. Severe varicose veins can contribute to this.
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Heart Failure: A weakened heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs and peripheral tissues.
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Kidney Disease: Damaged kidneys can't effectively remove excess fluid and sodium from the body, causing oedema.
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Liver Disease: Liver disease can lead to reduced production of albumin, a protein in the blood. Low albumin levels can cause fluid to leak out of blood vessels and into the surrounding tissues.
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Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing uterus on the veins in the pelvis can contribute to oedema during pregnancy.
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Blood Clots: A blood clot in the leg veins can block blood flow and cause swelling.
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Medications: Certain medications, such as some blood pressure drugs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and steroids, can cause oedema as a side effect.
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Lymphedema: This condition occurs when the lymphatic system is blocked or damaged, preventing fluid from draining properly.
While immobility is a common factor, it is crucial to understand that oedema can be a symptom of a more serious underlying medical condition. If you experience persistent or unexplained swelling, it's important to seek medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
