Water Retention

What is Water Retention?

Water retention or edema is the build-up of excess fluid in body tissues that leads to swelling. This is usually seen in the hands, feet, and ankles, but can also occur in other parts of the body, like the face and abdomen. The body has a complex system for regulating and maintaining its fluid balance, but sometimes this system can fail, leading to fluid accumulation in various tissues and organs.

Causes and Symptoms

There are many possible causes of water retention, including:

• High salt intake
• Pregnancy
• Hot weather
• Heart or kidney problems
• Hormonal changes
• Prolonged sitting or standing
• Medications

Some of the common symptoms of water retention include:

• Swelling in different regions of the body
• Puffiness or bloating
• Stiffness and pain in the affected area
• Trouble moving or flexing the joint

Prevention and Treatment

The best way to prevent water retention is to adopt a healthy lifestyle and habits, such as drinking plenty of water, avoiding excess salt and alcohol consumption, and maintaining regular physical activity.

Treatment may involve addressing the underlying cause, like managing the underlying medical condition or adjusting the medication. Some other methods to alleviate water retention include:

• Elevating the affected area
• Using compression stockings or sleeves
• Reducing salt intake
• Taking diuretics