Edema, called dropsy long ago, is swelling caused by fluid retention. This condition usually occurs in your feet, legs, or ankles. However, it can also occur in your hands, your face, or any other part of the body. Treatment varies depending on the cause.

There are many different kinds and causes of edema, and it’s often a symptom of another condition.

Illnesses

Serious illnesses that can cause edema include:

Medications

Medications can cause edema, such as those prescribed for:

Other causes

Sometimes, edema is a result of varicose veins or damaged veins in your legs.

Depending on the location, any surgery that involves removal of lymph nodes can result in edema. This form of edema is known as lymphedema.

A poor diet, especially one containing too much salt, can cause mild edema. When combined with other conditions, a poor diet can also make edema worse.

Prolonged sitting and standing can also cause edema, especially in hot weather.

If you suddenly develop edema during pregnancy, call your doctor immediately. It can be a sign of complications.

Always seek emergency assistance if you have trouble breathing. It could be a sign of pulmonary edema, a serious medical condition in which the lung cavities fill with fluid.

It’s important that your doctor identify the cause of your edema so that it can be treated properly. Temporary edema can often be improved by reducing your salt intake and keeping your legs up when sitting.

Treatment at home

Here are a few other things you can try to ease edema:

  • Eat a wide variety of healthy foods, avoiding packaged and processed foods that are high in salt.
  • Get a moderate amount of exercise, which can help prevent swelling due to inactivity.
  • Avoid tobacco and alcohol.
  • Wear support stockings.
  • Try acupuncture or massage.
  • Use grape seed extract, which may lower blood pressure and help alleviate edema related to varicose veins and poor vein function.
Before trying grape seed extract, make sure you speak with your doctor to see if it’s safe for you. If you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinners, you shouldn’t take grape seed extract. Also, let your doctor know if you are using it and are scheduled for surgery.

Medical treatment

Here’s some advice you may receive for specific conditions or situations:

  • Pregnancy. Significant fluid retention can be dangerous and needs to be properly diagnosed.
  • Heart failure. Diuretics may be used in conjunction with other medications that improve heart function.
  • Cirrhosis. Eliminating all alcohol, reducing salt, and taking diuretics can improve symptoms.
  • Lymphedema. Diuretics can be helpful during early onset. Compression stockings or sleeves can also be useful.
  • Medication-induced edema. Diuretics won’t work in these cases. Your medication may need to be changed or discontinued.

Seek medical care immediately if your edema is suddenly worse, painful, new, or if it’s associated with chest pain or trouble breathing.

To prevent edema, stay as physically active as you’re able, avoid excess sodium in your diet, and follow your doctor’s orders regarding any conditions that cause edema.