pittingturvotukseksi

Pittingturvotukseksi is a Finnish term that translates to "pitting edema" in English. It describes a type of swelling that occurs in the body, typically in the extremities like the legs, ankles, and feet, but can also affect the hands. The characteristic feature of pitting edema is that when pressure is applied to the swollen area, an indentation or "pit" remains for a period of time after the pressure is released. This is in contrast to non-pitting edema, where the skin returns to its normal shape immediately after pressure is removed.

The formation of pitting edema is generally due to an accumulation of excess interstitial fluid, which is the fluid found in the spaces between cells. This fluid buildup can occur for a variety of reasons. Common causes include prolonged standing or sitting, which can impede the return of blood and lymph fluid to the heart. It can also be a symptom of underlying medical conditions such as heart failure, kidney disease, liver disease, and venous insufficiency. Certain medications, particularly some blood pressure medications and steroids, can also lead to pitting edema as a side effect. In pregnant women, it is a common occurrence due to increased fluid retention and pressure from the growing uterus.

Diagnosis of pitting edema typically involves a physical examination where a healthcare professional applies pressure to the swollen area. The severity of the pitting can be graded. Further investigations may be conducted to identify the underlying cause, which might include blood tests, urine tests, or imaging studies. Treatment focuses on addressing the root cause of the edema, which could involve lifestyle modifications, medication adjustments, or management of chronic diseases.