Oedema

Oedema (also spelled edema) is the buildup of fluid in the body which can cause swelling in the arteries. In many cases the oedema swells to an extent which causes it to be visible outside the skin. Oedema mainly affects the arms and legs, including the hands, ankles and feet.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of Oedema are:

• skin discolouration
• fluid-filled areas of skin
• aching limbs
• stiff joints
• weight gain/loss
• raised blood pressure and pulse rate

Causes

Oedema can be caused by many factors, the main ones being:

• High salt intake
• Staying still for long periods of time
• Blood clot
• Varicose veins