Fluid or water retention is characterised by swelling in different parts of the body, including the legs, ankles, feet, face, and hands. It is caused by fluid buildup in the bodily tissues due to various reasons, ranging from something as simple as a poor diet to a more serious issue like Congestive Heart Failure (CHF).
In a conversation with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Brunda, Consultant-Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, discussed how fluid retention affects and manifests in different parts of the body, what causes it, and symptoms to watch out for.
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What Is Fluid Retention?
The human body is made up of 50–60% water.
Water plays a crucial role in maintaining various bodily functions, including nutrient transport, body temperature regulation, and waste elimination. This is facilitated by the circulatory system, the kidneys, the lymphatic system, hormonal factors, and other bodily systems.
However, when one or more of these systems fail to function effectively and when the balance of water within the body is disrupted, it leads to conditions like fluid retention, also known as oedema.
Fluid retention occurs when there is a lot of fluid accumulated in the body's tissues. The moment the body retains more fluid than it eliminates, it often manifests as swelling in the extremities, such as the ankles and legs.
Common Causes
Fluid retention can stem from various medical conditions or lifestyle factors, said Dr Brunda.
Common causes include heart failure, kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, and certain medications like corticosteroids and Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), according to her.
Additionally, hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or menstruation, can also contribute to oedema, whereas inactivity, excessive salt intake, and standing or sitting for prolonged periods may exacerbate fluid retention by impairing circulation, the doctor added.
How Fluid Retention Affects Different Parts Of The Body
There are many ways fluid retention affects and manifests in different parts of the body. These include:
Legs and ankles
Fluid retention in the lower extremities often leads to swelling due to gravity's effects. This occurs when excess fluid gets trapped in the tissues of the legs and ankles. One of the most common causes is prolonged periods of sitting or standing.
Abdomen
When it comes to fluid retention in the abdomen, it can cause bloating, discomfort, and a feeling of heaviness. Common causes include liver disease, kidney dysfunction, or certain gastrointestinal conditions.
Also Read: Swollen Body Parts After 30s: What Does It Indicate?
Face
Facial puffiness, particularly around the eyes, is a common sign of oedema. This can be associated with various factors, including allergies, hormonal changes, or kidney problems.
Lungs
Fluid buildup in the lungs can result in breathing difficulties. This can result from heart failure, severe infections, or Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), a respiratory condition that causes low blood oxygen.
On Treating Fluid Retention
Some of the most common and natural ways to reduce fluid retention include:
- Eating less salt
- Including potassium-rich foods in your diet
- Increasing magnesium and vitamin B6 intake
- Keep your feet elevated
- Compression socks may help
- Address underlying medical conditions, such as kidney problems and liver issues
It is important to seek a doctor's advice on persistent fluid buildup in the body, as it can lead to serious complications. Depending on the severity, the doctor may prescribe medications and supplements to tackle the problem.