Fluid retention in the body (which can also be known as edema) is caused by an excessive accumulation of fluid in the tissues
In short, fluid retention is the excessive and abnormal accumulation of water between the body’s cells that is subsequently eliminated through urine. Fluid retention is more common in women and basically contributes to a bloated belly and cellulite, however it can also be more serious and cause swollen legs and feet.
However, this edema can be pathological, that is, characterized as a permanent disease. Or not, when it occurs occasionally and after being eliminated by treatment it does not appear again.
Without a doubt, the accumulation of fluids in the body causes swelling, which can be easily noticed by the increase in volume in the abdomen, face, and especially in the legs, ankles and feet. Finally, a person can acquire approximately 2 kg in a single day.
How do I know if I have fluid retention?
Firstly, you can press with your thumb for 30 seconds on the region close to the ankles, then just observe if the region is marked. This is a very easy way to find out if you are retaining fluids.
Secondly, the type of clothing that is tight around the waist also serves as a parameter to assess whether the person has fluid retention.
Often having thin, shiny skin in the swollen area can also be a sign of fluid retention, as can having swollen eyelids and/or face. So always pay attention to the signals your body may be sending you.
However, it is extremely important to remember that if you are not sure whether you are retaining fluids or not, this simple test can help, but only a specialist can confirm it through a diagnosis. So see your doctor.
What are the causes?
- Diet rich in salt and sodium;
- Little intake of water or clear liquids, such as teas;
- Pregnancy;
- Staying still for a long time in the same position, sitting or standing;
- Heart problems, such as heart failure or cardiomyopathy;
- Use of certain medications, such as birth control pills, heart or blood pressure medications;
- Lack of physical activity;
- Kidney disease;
- Hepatical cirrhosis;
- Changes in thyroid function.
And the symptoms?
In short, people usually notice signs of edema in regions more susceptible to fluid accumulation. This basically occurs on the legs, on the back of people who lie down for a long time or in areas more prone to the action of gravity.
Diagnosis
First of all, your doctor will most likely order some blood tests that measure the amount of salts and proteins, as well as a heart, liver, kidney, immunology and thyroid evaluation. Finally, sometimes it is also necessary to carry out tests to evaluate the veins and arteries close to the area most affected by the swelling. But it is worth remembering that for each type of swelling there must be a cause, which requires specific treatment.
Treatments
Food
After all, fluid retention can be a symptom that appears as a consequence of some habits such as an incorrect diet. So starting to have a correct diet without a doubt helps a lot.
Firstly, products such as industrialized sauces such as ketchup, rose sauce, soy sauce, mayonnaise, mustard, among others, must be eliminated from your diet. As well as pre-cooked foods (instant food) and any type of product that may contain flavor additives, as these are generally foods that have a high sodium content.
Finally, alcoholic beverages are also partly to blame, as they interfere with some biochemical processes of glucose in the blood and the absorption of water by the kidneys, increasing edema.
Drink tea
Teas are definitely great diuretics, so the best options are:
- Horsetail,
- Hibiscus;
- Cinnamon with ginger;
- Green Tea;
- Ginkgo biloba;
- Parsley;
- Asian spark;
- Horse chestnut.
Lymphatic drainage
Lymphatic drainage is basically a type of massage that attempts to drain liquids and toxins accumulated in the body, gently sending them to the nodes located in the groin, armpits and legs.
However, these treatments can be carried out in specialized aesthetic clinics, with sessions ranging from 3 to 5 times a week, depending on each person’s needs. Each session lasts around 45 to 60 minutes and immediately afterwards the person should feel the need to urinate, which indicates that the treatment had the expected effect.
Physical exercises
One of the main causes of water retention in our body is the lack of physical activity. After all, the lack of movement causes our body to store liquid as it is unable to expel it efficiently.
Therefore, some physical exercises, such as straight abdominal exercises, stretching and running, are very effective in reducing the feeling of bloating and improving the quality of life of people who suffer from fluid retention.
Diuretic medicines
First of all, these medications should only be used under medical advice. In short, there are different types of diuretic medications that are more or less indicated depending on the cause of retention. For example, some are suitable for the heart, and can only be used by people with heart problems. So, don’t use medicine without the guidance of a professional.
How to prevent this retention?
Following all the tips and drinking lots of water. Dehydration is one of the factors that can encourage the problem to appear. Therefore, the more water you drink, the more toxins you will eliminate through your urine.
Fluid retention during pregnancy
Fluid retention during pregnancy is one of the most common and typical discomforts during pregnancy. The increase in weight, and of course the overload on the legs, in addition to the pressure that builds up on the veins, ends up making the circulation of the pregnant woman’s body very difficult.
However, by taking the necessary care, it is possible to control the symptoms and have a pregnancy with minimal discomfort. However, the use of potassium also helps a lot to regulate the body, so increase the consumption of vegetables and fruits, especially foods such as tomatoes, spinach, fruits, dried unsalted mushrooms and vegetables that are rich in potassium and will help maintain the control.
Did you like the article? read also: Relaxing massage – Benefits and how to do it step by step
Sources: Drauzio Varella Brasil
Featured Image: Flo
