oedeem

Oedeem is a medical condition characterized by swelling caused by excess fluid accumulating in the body's interstitial spaces. The term is used in Dutch; in English the corresponding term is edema. Oedeem can be localized or generalized and may be pitting (leaves a dent when pressed) or non-pitting. Common sites include the legs, ankles, feet, abdomen, face, and hands. When edema involves the lungs, it is referred to as pulmonary edema and can cause breathing difficulties.

Causes are diverse and include heart failure, kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, venous insufficiency, and lymphatic obstruction. Other contributors include pregnancy, prolonged standing or immobility, certain medications (such as calcium channel blockers and some anti-hypertensives), infection, malnutrition, and inflammatory or allergic processes. Edema may arise from increased capillary hydrostatic pressure, decreased plasma oncotic pressure, increased capillary permeability, or impaired lymphatic drainage.

Diagnosis relies on clinical examination and history, supported by testing as needed. Doctors assess the pattern (localized vs generalized, unilateral vs bilateral), duration, and diurnal variation. Additional investigations may include blood tests (kidney and liver function, albumin), urine tests, imaging (ultrasound to evaluate veins or heart-related studies, chest X-ray for pulmonary edema), and measurements of limb circumference.

Treatment targets the underlying cause and the symptoms. Approaches may include diuretics to remove excess fluid, compression garments, leg elevation, and sodium restriction. Managing heart, kidney, or liver disease, treating venous insufficiency or lymphatic obstruction, and addressing medications are important. Prevention focuses on controlling risk factors and early management of underlying conditions. The prognosis varies widely with the cause and treatment effectiveness.