5 signs that you are retaining fluid

Do you know what the signs are that indicate that you are retaining fluid?

Even though it is a common problem, this situation can indicate other more serious issues, such as kidney, heart, or liver disease.

In the case of heart patients, there is an overload on cardiac function due to the increase in fluids in circulation, which requires greater effort to function.

In short, retention causes swelling that is usually more visible on the legs, face or hands, the skin becomes brighter and more sensitive.

In addition, the skin becomes marked by wearing tighter clothes, rings and there is faster weight gain.  

See more signs that you are retaining fluid.

What is fluid retention?

Initially, edema is the term used to describe swelling in the legs due to the accumulation of fluid in that area.

This usually occurs in women and does not always indicate a more serious condition, but it is a recurring complaint in clinics, due to the discomfort caused.

But swelling does not only occur in the legs, it is also seen in the abdomen and arms.

In short, discomfort occurs as weight is gained, with a fluctuation of 1 to 3 kg at the beginning as a result of retention.

For example, when a person stands all day, fluid can leak into the blood vessels of the legs, called interstitium.

In this way, this loss of volume in the vessels signals the kidneys, in order to replace the lost fluid, to retain sodium and water, which increases the volume of water in the body and consequently the weight.

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Fluid retention: what are the causes?

There are some issues that cause fluid retention, here are some:

1. High salt intake in food

One of the main causes of fluid retention is the consumption of salty foods, salt contains a lot of sodium which retains water.

Therefore, to avoid retention, you should reduce the amount of salt in your food or use salt with a low sodium content.

2. Pregnancy  

This also happens when the woman is pregnant and is considered a normal situation, as during pregnancy there is an increase in hormone production.

This ends up causing the blood vessels to dilate and increasing swelling in the legs and ankles.

In short, this occurs because when the blood reaches the legs it cannot return to the heart as easily.

Causing fluid to accumulate in the space between cells, causing swelling.

3. Not drinking water regularly

It is essential to keep the body well hydrated, to aid cell function and help the kidneys function, and eliminate the amount of sodium in the body.

Therefore, not drinking water regularly will end up causing you to end up retaining fluid.

Therefore, drink at least 1.5 to 3 liters of natural water per day, remembering that the amount of water you should drink will be calculated according to your weight.

4. Lack of physical exercise

Not exercising regularly ends up affecting blood circulation, which slows down circulation and causes fluid retention.

However, regular physical exercise helps with prevention and significantly improves blood circulation.

Doing physical activities for at least 30 minutes 5 times a week, whether it's a light walk, a run or any other activity, will help with blood circulation.

5. Standing still for too long

The person may also be retaining fluid if she stays still for a long time, whether standing or especially sitting in the same position.

In other words, when you remain still for a long time, the return of blood from your limbs to your heart will be difficult.

As a result, this will cause swelling in the ankles, feet, legs, hands and arms.

6. Use of medication

There are some medications that can cause fluid retention and consequently swelling in the body.

Corticosteroids, minoxil or medications for treating high blood pressure such as captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, amlodipine, among others.

7. Hormonal changes

Retention is more common in women precisely due to hormonal changes, which involve the menstrual cycle.

In this sense, the woman knows that she is retaining fluid through abdominal or breast swelling.

8. Thyroid

There are some hormonal diseases that influence this issue that causes retention, such as hypothyroidism.

9. Cardiovascular problems

Retention can occur due to cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure, heart failure or venous failure.

In short, this occurs because of the difficulty in pumping blood to the heart.

Retaining fluid: see the 5 signs 

Fluid retention occurs when there is an unusual buildup of fluids in the body, resulting in swelling in the feet, arms, ankles, abdomen, face, among other parts.

See 5 signs that indicate fluid retention:

1. Swelling: Swelling is the most common symptom of fluid retention. It can affect various areas of the body, such as the legs, hands, stomach, back, arms, and face. When you touch your skin, you may notice the difference and the sensation of swelling.

2. Tight and shiny skin: The skin in the affected area may appear tight and shiny due to fluid build-up.

3. Pain or increased sensitivity: In addition to swelling, you may feel pain or increased sensitivity in the affected area.

4. Stiffness in joints: Fluid retention can cause stiffness in the joints, making movement difficult.

5. Increased body weight: Fluid accumulation can lead to a temporary increase in body weight.

Conclusion 

If the information presented showed that you are retaining fluid, it is important for the person to seek medical advice.

It is necessary to identify the cause and seek the correct treatment, in addition to preventive measures to avoid fluid retention.

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