What are the causes of edema?
Sep 22, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, edema may be caused by factors such as the menstrual cycle, excessive fluid intake, limb compression, malnutrition, or hypothyroidism. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive treatment under the guidance of a physician. In daily life, one should maintain a balanced diet, reduce salt intake, engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy sleep schedule, and avoid staying up late and overexertion.
Under normal circumstances, edema may be caused by factors such as the menstrual cycle, excessive water intake, limb compression, malnutrition, or hypothyroidism. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Menstrual Cycle
During menstruation, elevated estrogen levels in women can lead to water and sodium retention in the body, thereby causing edema. Engaging in moderate physical activity in daily life can help promote blood circulation.
2. Excessive Water Intake
When large amounts of water are consumed within a short period, exceeding the kidney's excretory capacity, excess fluid may accumulate in tissue spaces, resulting in edema. It is advisable to control daily water intake and avoid drinking large quantities of water in a short time.
3. Limb Compression
Remaining in the same position for prolonged periods—such as sitting, standing, or lying down for extended durations—can obstruct blood circulation and impair lymphatic drainage in compressed areas, leading to edema. Regular movement and avoiding prolonged immobility are recommended in daily life.
4. Malnutrition
Long-term dieting, starvation, or inadequate nutrition can lead to malnutrition, reducing plasma protein levels and decreasing plasma colloid osmotic pressure, which may result in edema. This condition may be accompanied by symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, and anemia. Patients should, under medical supervision, use medications such as vitamin B complex tablets, compound amino acid injection, and live bacterial preparations like *Bacillus subtilis* bifidus granules for treatment.
5. Hypothyroidism
Insufficient iodine intake may lead to hypothyroidism, causing increased mucoid substances that accumulate in tissue spaces and trigger edema. Symptoms may include cold intolerance and fatigue. Under medical guidance, patients may require medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, calcium carbonate D3 tablets, and hydrocortisone tablets for treatment.
In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, reduce salt intake, engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy sleep schedule, and avoid staying up late or overexertion.
