Pittingedemaoccurs because of a buildup of fluids that causes swelling, usually in the lower body.
Non-pitting edema doesnt leave a mark and is usually sparked by fluids with relatively higherproteinand salt content.
This article explains the underlying causes of pitting edema, as well as its symptoms.
Verywell / Zoe Hansen
It presents lifestyle changes and other interventions used to treat pitting edema.
Lifestyle factors, like high salt intake, can lead to fluid retention and can be modified through diet.
Other causes, though, include serious illness, such aschronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD).
While DVTs can be treated, they also can lead to complications such as post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS).
This leads to the formation of varicose veins.
Or, both sides may fail in CHF.
The swelling can affect the hands, feet, and ankles, but also may appear in the face.
With renal hypertension, thepulmonary edemacan affect the lungs.
Often, fluid will build up in the abdomen, too.
Hepatitisof the liver can lead to edema.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy and related hormonal changes can lead to edema because they cause fluid retention.
Pregnant people also have more blood volume in their bodies.
It’s quite common but if you experience sudden swelling, get it checked out.
It may be a sign ofpreeclampsia, a serious condition that needs medical attention right away.
Lifestyle factors also can contribute to the development of edema.
They include:
Alcohol use disorders that lead to cirrhosis and other conditions also may lead to pitting edema.
Grading Scale and Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis and assessment is essential for proper treatment of pitting edema.
In addition to grading, doctors will also perform exams and tests to isolate whats causing the pitting edema.
The pitting edema scale is used to measure it.
Its essential to see a healthcare provider if you think youre experiencing it.
Your healthcare provider can then discuss the prognosis, or possible outcomes, for your condition.
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