Edema is swelling of body parts due to fluid retention, the accumulation of the excessive fluids in cells or cavities of the body. Edema is also known as oedema. It mostly affects the lower body parts especially the foot and ankles. Edema can slow down healing process and increase the chances of skin infection. It can also affect blood circulation and cause pain. Edema however is not a disease, it only indicates that something is wrong in the body.
The major symptom of edema is that there is a non-inflammatory swelling in the body parts especially the foot and the ankles and when the swelling is pressed it creates a hollow which takes some time to disappear.
Cause of edema are heart failure, anemia, kindly disease, low protein level in blood, liver disease, malnutrition, starvation for longtime, thyroid disease, weak veins, medication, pregnancy, menstrual cycles, immobility. Heat and hot weather can also be a cause for edema. Edema causes abnormal circulation of fluids beneath the skin which results in tingling sensation. Raised hydrostatic pressure can also be a cause of pulmonary edema. Reduced oncotic pressure also causes pitty edema.
Mustard oil is very effective to cure edema. Warm mustard oil rub of the swollen area or mustard seeds soaked in water and the solution applied on the swelling can be very beneficial. Apple cider vinegar helps removing extra fluids from the body cell and cavities.
Patients suffering from edema should consume very less carbohydrates and should consume more of proteins and fat rich foods. Fruits and vegetables should be avoided as they can increase the fluids in the body. Low-sodium diets should be taken as sodium can make the medicines ineffective.
Regular exercise is a must as this will help the body to get rid of the extra fluids. Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption. If feet are swollen it is recommended that one should keep the legs a bit raised with the support of a pillow.