Fluid retention is also called edema. It occurs due to an imbalance of the liquids that we have in the body. When hands, legs or feets are swollen, it tells us that our body can not properly remove fluid and maintain balance.
How do we realize we have fluid retention? We can observe it when we see swollen parts of the body like the fingers, the ankles, the eyes, among others.
What are the Possible Causes of fluid retention?
– Sedentary lifestyle.
– Hormonal fluctuations (pregnancy, menopause, premenopause).
– Imbalance in fluid intake.
– Diseases specific to certain organs (hypertension, cirrhosis, heart failure, cancer, malnutrition).
– Inflammation of joints due to trauma.
– Circulatory disorders (slowing of the blood and lymphatic return pushing the liquid towards the interstice).
– Ingestion of medications (steroids, oral contraceptives, anti-inflammatories).
– Climate: to a lesser extent fluctuations in atmospheric pressure and high temperatures.
Tips to Avoid Fluid Retention/ Edema
1.Take 2 liters of water per day.
2.Increase the consumption of vegetables and fruits in our diet.
3. Perform regular and constant physical activity.
4.Consume a moderate amount of table salt.
5. Take a varied and balanced diet, adjusting to age, weight, height and lifestyle.
6. Check the color of the urine: if it is dark (concentrated urine) means that we lack water as the body removes excess salt to avoid the retention of liquid. Therefore it will be necessary to drink water.
Consult a physician in case you see any of the symptoms so as to get medical help at the earliest
