Definition: Local or generalized condition in which the body tissues retain an excessive amount of fluid in the tissues. It is a symptom of various conditions including:
- heart failure
- venous obstruction
- lymphatic obstruction
- poor renal function
- inflammation
- fluid and electrolyte disturbances causing sodium retention
- malnutrition
- starvation
- exposure to chemical substances such as bacterial toxins, venoms, caustic substances and histamine
Edema is generally treated by finding and treating the cause. Bedrest, fluid and dietary salt restriction is also used to reduce the swelling. Physicians may prescribe a diuretic medication when the kidneys are functioning properly.
Pronunciation: e-de'ma
Also Known As: swelling
Alternate Spellings: oedema (Great Britain), edematous, edemas, edemata
Common Misspellings: edama
Examples: I developed edema of my feet while traveling on a long airplane flight because my circulation is poor.