Edema means swelling caused by the accumulation of fluid in the tissues of the body. It usually occurs on the feet, ankles, and legs, but it can affect the entire body.
Causes of edema include:
-Consume too much salt
-Sun burns
-Heart failure
-Kidney diseases
-Liver problems due to cirrhosis
-Pregnancy
-Problems with lymph nodes, especially after a mastectomy
-Some medicine
-Stay standing or sitting for a long time in hot weather
To decrease edema, your doctor may recommend keeping your legs elevated when sitting, wearing elastic stockings, limiting salt intake, or taking medications called diuretics.
