Water Education - Water and Health

Water Retention Symptoms May be a sign of illness

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Water retention which is also known as edema, takes place when a build-up of fluid remains in the body tissues. The entire body will swell or just certain parts of it depending on what the cause is. These are called generalized and localized edema. Edema usually gathers in the ankles and feet, legs, arms, and hands. Water retention symptoms may be a sign of illness and should be examined by a doctor.

Mild fluid retention can be attributed to any number of causes such as sunburn, the menstrual cycle, a sprained ankle, salty foods, or even a sedentary lifestyle. By reducing one’s salt intake the swelling should start subsiding fairly quickly. The average person loses about two pounds in water weight. Water pills can be taken to reduce swelling but often it suffices to simply drink more water since this is what the body requires.

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Adrenal Glad Malfunction

Sometimes water retention is a result of adrenal gland malfunction. The function of adrenaline is to restore and maintain blood glucose levels. When these glands produce too much adrenaline it decreases the activity in the bladder and bowel muscle. The adrenal glands are important because they regulate the quantity of salt and water in the body. It is important to relax the whole body whenever you feel your adrenaline rushing by doing some deep breathing exercises. Take 3-4 slow deep breaths in a row, and about 5 minutes later repeat this.

Physical Injuries

A sprained ankle may result in stretched or torn ligaments. The damaged area will swell almost immediately and requires elevation and an ice pack to bring down the swelling. The swelling is caused by blood vessels leaking fluid into the tissue. It is important to not leave the ice pack on for more than ten to fifteen minutes to avoid freezing the skin.

Arthritis

Stiff, swollen joints can also be an indication of arthritis. There are many different kinds of this condition so the treatment depends on the type. Symptoms include swelling and sensitivity in the painful area. This is a situation where the white blood cells migrate to the affected area in an attempt to repair what the immune system has interpreted as the invasion of a foreign body. Arthritis basically involves the wearing away of the cartilage in the joints. Friction between the unprotected bones will cause pain and swelling. Joint mobility and pain reduction can be maintained by having regular physical therapy treatments.

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