Water Retention

There are four forms of edema:

- Anasarca edema is generalized swelling over the entire body.

- Dependent edema is swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, face and neck.

- Periobital edema involves swelling around the eyes.

- Corneal edema causes swelling in the cornea of the eye.

Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs in 5% of pregnant women that results in high blood pressure, edema and protein in the urine.

Possible Causes of Edema / Water Retention
Edema may be triggered by allergies or serious disorders of the kidney, bladder, heart or liver. Other causes of edema include poor diet; drug abuse; over use of laxatives or diuretics; oral contraceptives; poor kidney function; heart problems; protein deficiency; varicose veins; sodium retention; poor magnesium/calcium balance; premenstrual syndrome; pregnancy; or a high carbohydrate diet.

Possible Symptoms of Edema / Water Retention
Symptoms of edema include high blood pressure, headaches, increased urination, heart palpitations, swollen hands, wrists, fingers, waist, feet or ankles; puffy eyes; and weight gain of more than five pounds in one week.

Possible Lifestyle Changes for Edema / Water Retention
Avoid alcohol, animal protein, caffeine, chocolate, dairy products, gravies, olives, pickles, salt, soy sauce, white flour and white sugar. Do not use tobacco in any form. Reduce salt and preservative intake. If diuretics are used, be sure to supplement the body's supply of magnesium, calcium, zinc and potassium.