Swelling

Definition

Swelling is the enlargement of organs, skin, or other body parts. It is caused by build up of fluid in the tissues. The extra fluid can lead to a rapid increase in weight over a short period of time (days to weeks).

Swelling can occur throughout the body (generalized) or only in a specific part of the body (localized).

See also:

• Angioedema
• Ankle, feet, and leg swelling
• Breast enlargement
• Facial swelling
• Joint swelling
• Scrotal swelling
• Swelling in the abdomen
• Swollen glands
• Swollen gums

Alternative Names

Edema; Anasarca

Considerations

Slight swelling (edema) of the lower legs commonly occurs in warm summer months, especially if a person has been standing or walking a lot.

Generalized swelling, or massive edema (also called anasarca), is a common sign in severely ill people. Although slight edema may be difficult to detect, a large amount of swelling is very obvious.

Edema is described as pitting or non-pitting.

• Pitting edema leaves a dent in the skin after you press the area with a finger for about 5 seconds. The dent will slowly fill back in.
• Non-pitting edema does not leave this type of dent when pressing on the swollen area.

Common Causes

• Acute glomerulonephritis
• Burns, including sunburn
• Chronic kidney disease
• Heart failure
• Liver failure from cirrhosis
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Poor nutrition
• Pregnancy
• Thyroid disease
• Too little albumin in the blood (hypoalbuminemia)
• Too much salt or sodium
• Use of certain drugs, including
  • Androgenic and anabolic steroids
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Certain blood pressure medicines
  • Corticosteroids such as prednisone
  • Diabetes medicines called thiazolidinediones
  • Estrogen
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Home Care

Follow your doctor's treatment recommendations. If you have chronic swelling, ask your doctor about the options to prevent skin breakdown such as a pressure-reducing mattress, a lamb's wool pad, or a flotation ring.

Maintain everyday activities. When lying down, keep your arms and legs above the heart level, if possible, to encourage drainage. However, do not do this if shortness of breath results. See your doctor instead.

Content
licensed
from:

Reviewer Info: Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. ; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 11/16/2008

This feature is for informational purposes only and should not be used to replace the care and information received from your healthcare provider. Please consult a healthcare professional with any health concerns you may have.