Water Education - Water and Health

Water Retention Symptoms May be a sign of illness - Page 2

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Kidney Malfunction

The kidneys are able to eliminate all waste materials that our body produces. However, if the kidneys are not working properly many problems can occur such as swelling of the body or weight gain from water retention. Kidney treatments include special diets or recommended supplements that provide necessary minerals for kidney health.

Certain medications can also cause water retention:

  • Hormones, like estrogen and testosterone
  • A group of blood pressure lowering drugs
  • Steroids
  • Antidepressants

Liver Disease

Patients diagnosed with liver disease can benefit from early detection. The function of the liver is to convert fat into energy. Removing alcohol from one’s diet will help the liver to continue in its function provided that the disease is in its early stages. The liver is able to repair itself under certain conditions. Preventing any further damage to the liver can sometimes reverse the negative effects. Examples of liver disease are liver cirrhosis, hepatitis, infections, and cancer.

When water retention is caused by a serious underlying condition such as kidney or liver problems, a doctor should be consulted as quickly as possible. When the ankles and legs are swollen, this is an indication that organs like the heart and kidney are not doing their job. The sooner a physician can establish the causes for the swelling the sooner they can prescribe preventative measures to relieve the symptoms. Water retention symptoms may be a sign of illness and if detected early enough, it can possibly be prevented from getting any worse.

Healthy Ways to Reduce Water Retention:

  • Cut down salt consumption
  • Exercise regularly
  • Raise the legs up several times a day to improve circulation
  • Wear supporting stockings if water retention occurs in your lower limbs
  • Not to sit/stand still for too long
  • Avoid extremes of temperature, such as hot baths, showers, and saunas
  • Massage the affected area to help move the fluid

Sometimes the best way to reduce water retention problems is to drink more water. If you are not drinking enough water the body stores this water because it is not sure when it will get more. By drinking plenty of water your system will know it does not need to store water. It will concentrate more on replenishing your body and flushing out the toxins in your body. Staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet, and feeling positive are the key ingredients in living a healthy and happy life free of water retention!

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