Can Oedema Be A Sign Of Protein Deficiency?

When we talk about protein intake through diet, it’s usually in the context of repairing and building tissues and muscles. However, low protein levels in the body can also result in other health issues, including something so seemingly unrelated as oedema, which refers to swelling caused by fluid buildup in the body's tissues.

To understand the connection, the OnlyMyHealth team spoke to Dr Manish Itolikar, Consultant Physician, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, who also shared tips to prevent the condition.

Also Read: Protein Deficiency In Children: Who Is Most At Risk And How To Prevent It?

How Protein Deficiency Leads To Oedema

“Protein deficiency, mainly due to the albumin component of the protein, can lead to oedema because albumin is mainly responsible for holding the fluid inside the blood vessels,” Dr Itolikar explained. “When albumin is low, fluid from the blood vessels leaks out and accumulates in the legs and other loose tissues,” he added.

According to StatPearls Publishing, albumin is a protein made by the liver and released into the bloodstream. Normally, it's found in the blood, the spaces between cells, and a few other body fluids. But if large amounts of albumin show up in places like urine or fluid buildup in the abdomen, also called ascites, it can be a sign that something is wrong in the body.

Signs To Watch Out For

The early signs of protein-related oedema include:

• Swelling around the ankles, which might progress upwards.
• In the case of bedridden patients, swelling may occur between the buttocks, known as 'sacral oedema.
• Pitting oedema, characterised by dimpling or pitting when pressed on the swollen area.

How To Increase Protein Intake

Dr Itolikar suggested that adequate protein intake can reverse the oedema, but it takes time because the body’s natural protein synthesis takes around three weeks to regenerate.

At the same time, it is necessary to correct the underlying disorder that caused the protein deficiency in the first place.

He shared, “Protein deficiency can arise due to several disorders, mostly from malnutrition related to the gastrointestinal tract or increased protein loss through the kidneys in cases of renal disorders. Other than these two conditions, cardiac failure, liver cirrhosis, chronic lung conditions, varicose venous disorders of the lower limbs and endocrine disorders like hypothyroidism can cause oedema.”

Also Read: Sudden Swelling In The Face, Hands, Feet, or Genitals? Expert Explains Angioedema In Detail

To increase protein intake, patients can include plants like sprouts or animals like meat and fish or dairy products in their diet. The best sources of proteins are eggs and milk, which can be easily incorporated into our daily diet.

Additionally, in critically ill patients who are unable to meet their nutritional requirements. Protein supplements can help.

Conclusion

While it may come as a surprise to many, protein deficiency can sometimes lead to oedema, especially in the abdomen, legs, feet, and hands. While increasing your protein intake through diet can help manage the condition, in severe cases, protein supplements may be recommended. However, it is best to consult your doctor. It is crucial to also pay attention to other symptoms of protein deficiency, including hair loss, increased hunger, and more severe infections, as these may help confirm the root cause of your oedema. The key is to identify why you have swelling in your body and ensure that you take care of it through proper treatments.