Contributed by: Healthians Team
Introduction
Water retention (oedema) is a common health issue that generally occurs when excess fluid builds up within the tissues in your body. This can cause you to feel heavier than normal, and less active. Fluid retention is Most commonly marked by:
- Bloating
- Puffiness
- Swelling
Given the fact that fluid retention can be an indicator of an underlying disease such as kidney disease or heart failure, ignoring it is not at all a good idea. In this article, we will explore its causes, symptoms and treatment.
FAQ #1: How can you tell if your body is retaining water?
Symptoms of water retention can include:
- Bloating, especially in the abdominal area
- Swelling of legs, feet, and ankles
- Puffiness of the hips, abdomen, and face
- Stiffness in joints
- Unexplained fluctuations in weight
- Skin indentations
- Pain in affected body parts
FAQ #2: What are the main causes of water retention?
- Poor diet
- Dietary deficiency
- Excess insulin
- Physical inactivity
- Being overweight
- Pregnancy
- Medication
- Underlying medical problems
- Body’s reaction to hot weather
- High salt intake
- Hormones associated with the menstrual cycle
- Standing up for long periods of time
- Burns – including sunburn
- Oral contraceptive pills
- Side effects of certain medications
- Recent surgery
FAQ #3: What are some medical conditions that may cause fluid retention?
Water retention may also be a symptom of serious underlying conditions, including:
- Kidney disease
- Heart failure
- Chronic lung diseases
- Liver disease
- Malignant lymphoedema
- Thyroid disease
- Arthritis
- Allergic reaction
- Autoimmune diseases such as lupus
FAQ #4: Can drinking more water help with fluid retention?
Contrary to popular belief, drinking enough water can not only help in combating retention but helps greatly in its reduction. Keeping your body hydrated with water or increasing water-rich foods aids liver function and prevents your body from holding on to the fluid it does have.
FAQ #5: How is water retention diagnosed?
Diagnostic tests may include:
- Physical examination
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Liver function tests
- Kidney function tests
- Chest x-ray
- Heart function tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG)
FAQ #6: Can it be self-treated?
It is recommended that you see your doctor rather than self-treat because oedema can be symptomatic of serious medical conditions such as heart, kidney or liver disease.
FAQ #7: What is the treatment for fluid retention?
Depending on the cause, treatment may include:
- Tweaking diet
- Diuretics (water pills to increase urination)
- Treatment for the underlying medical condition
- Lifestyle changes to treat the underlying medical condition
- Changes to medication or dosage, if drugs are the cause
- Dietary adjustments, if malnutrition is the cause
- Aids such as support stockings
FAQ #8: What are some self-care options for mild fluid retention?
- Increase Your Magnesium Intake
- Eat Less Salt
- Increase Vitamin B6 Intake
- Eat More Potassium-Rich Foods
- Avoid Refined Carbs
- Cut back on processed foods
- Walk and move around
- Elevate your feet
- Drink more water
- Avoid alcohol
FAQ #9: Is oedema a serious condition?
In some cases, fluid retention may be a symptom of a serious life-threatening condition that needs evaluation in an emergency setting. It is recommended to see the doctor If your body doesn’t return naturally to its balanced state.
Failure to seek treatment can result in serious complications and permanent damage. Seek medical advice if you, or someone you know, have any of these life-threatening symptoms:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Difficulty breathing
- Inability to urinate or reduced urination
- Unconsciousness
FAQ #10: What are some potential complications of fluid retention?
Fluid retention can induce a wide range of issues, depending on the degree and underlying reason. Mild fluid retention can occur after eating a high-salt meal in some circumstances, but there are no serious consequences. Fluid retention in severe heart failure, on the other hand, might cause your lungs to fill with extra fluid, resulting in life-threatening pulmonary oedema.
FAQ #11: What vitamins help to reduce water retention?
Foods rich in vitamin B6 such as bananas, potatoes, walnuts and fish, chicken, peanuts, soya beans, etc. can help in reducing mild cases of water retention.
Final thoughts
Water retention is a common health problem triggered by a variety of factors such as food, menstrual cycles, and poor dietary habits. Making simple lifestyle adjustments like eating healthy foods such as vegetables and fruits can aid in the relief of water retention. Consult your doctor if your water retention persists; medicines may be prescribed.
