Reviewed by Dr.Vijaykumar Kamat & written by Dr. Vijay Kumar Kamat.

Natural Treatments for Edema

Edema is swelling of different body parts caused by fluid accumulation. Commonly, it occurs on the feet, ankles and legs. It can also affect the brain, hands, eyes, or face. Edema is more common in pregnant women and older adults, but anyone can get it.

Edema is a symptom, not a condition. Edema is not a disease. Chronic edema may indicate underlying health problems.

Types and causes of edema

Edema comes in different forms. Here are a few types:

1. The most common form is peripheral edema. The hands, arms and legs are the most commonly affected. The affected area of the body will be swollen, puffy, and have difficulty moving.
2. This type of edema is caused by excess fluid in the lungs. Breathing becomes difficult. Congestive heart failure can also be caused. This is a serious condition that can lead to respiratory failure and even death.
3. Cerebral Edema: Affects the brain. Different reasons can cause it. The symptoms include nausea, vomiting and dizziness, as well as neck pain, headaches, vision changes, or partial or total blindness.
4. Macular edema is a serious condition that occurs mainly in diabetics. The macula, a small part of the retina that allows for detailed central vision, swells.

Other parts of the body can also be affected by edema, but these are the most common. Consult a doctor for the correct diagnosis and treatment.

Edema causes

Edema can be caused by a number of factors.

• If a person is seated or standing for a long time
• Some over-the-counter medications can cause edema.
• Infection of a blood vessel, or varicose Veins
• Insect bites
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy and menstruation
• Hypertension is high blood pressure
• Eat excessively salty foods
• Head Injury or Brain Injury
• Thyroid disorders
• Blood clots in the legs can also cause swelling and discomfort.
• Venous insufficiency occurs when veins cannot pump blood effectively. Blood can accumulate in the legs.
• Pericarditis, which is an inflammation of the membrane surrounding the heart, can cause breathing difficulties and swelling around the ankles and legs.
• The condition of lymphedema causes a blockage to the system. This results in swelling tissues, causing swelling of the legs and arms.
• Cirrhosis, caused by alcohol abuse or an infection, can lead to high blood pressure, poor circulation, and swelling of the legs and feet.

Symptoms and Signs

Individuals may have different signs and symptoms. The following are important signs and symptoms:

• The swelling is accompanied by pain, heat, and redness.
• Puffiness under the eyes
• Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
• Fatigue, muscle pains, and aches
• Lack of concentration

Treatment Options for Edema

There are many treatment options available to reduce edema. These measures are temporary and provide only temporary relief.

The conventional method is to apply compression sleeves and bandages over the swollen areas. Diuretics, massage, and reducing the salt in your diet are all options. Diuretics not only reduce fluid levels, but they also decrease important vitamins and minerals which can lead to low bone density.

Some cases require surgical removal of fluid to reduce swelling or repair damaged veins.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of herbal ingredients in treating edema.

When used in a mixture, herbs such as Withania somnifera and Piper longum are believed to be effective in treating edema.

Edema can be treated effectively with homeopathic remedies like Natrum Mur and Natrum Sulph.

Dietary suggestions

You can also use the following tips if you suffer from edema to relieve it:

• Reduce your salt intake to reduce fluid retention in your legs.
• Foods such as grapes, parsley, pineapple, pumpkin, onions, etc., contain natural diuretics.
• Consume foods high in antioxidants like blueberries, tomatoes and bell peppers.
• Foods rich in vitamin B, such as dark leafy green vegetables, whole grains and so on, are recommended.
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco use
• Vitamin C-rich foods include oranges, lemons, and other citrus fruits.

Other Tips

Follow the tips below to reduce swelling of the feet, ankles, and legs.

• While lying down, raise your legs. Legs should be elevated above heart level. To feel more comfortable, you can place a pillow beneath the legs.
• Stretch your legs and keep moving them
• Wearing garters and restrictive clothing on the thighs is not recommended
• Exercise regularly to help you maintain a healthy weight.
• Standing or sitting for a long time can cause you to become stiff.

Home remedies for Edema

Home remedies can be used to treat edema.

• Epsom salt can be added to water, and feet should be soaked in the water for 15 minutes. Epsom salt reduces swelling and inflammation.
• Eight to ten glasses of water a day
• Magnesium-rich foods are recommended for people with edema. You can include foods such as almonds, cashews, spinach, broccoli, avocados, etc.
• The addition of potassium-rich food to the diet can also help reduce swelling. Low potassium levels can lead to high blood pressure or water retention. Add foods like sweet potatoes, white beans, salmon, bananas, and chicken to your diet.