Patient/caregiver was educated on common risk factors for developing edema as follows:
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Heart Disease: Conditions like heart failure can lead to edema, as the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, causing fluid to accumulate in the legs, ankles, or abdomen.
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Kidney Disease: When the kidneys aren’t functioning properly, they can’t effectively remove excess fluid and waste from the body, leading to fluid retention and edema.
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Liver Disease: Liver conditions, such as cirrhosis, can disrupt the production of proteins like albumin, which help maintain fluid balance in the body. Low levels of albumin can lead to fluid leakage into tissues, causing edema.
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Venous Insufficiency: When the veins in the legs are weak or damaged, blood flow back to the heart becomes inefficient, leading to fluid buildup in the legs, which can cause edema.
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Pregnancy: During pregnancy, hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus on blood vessels can cause edema, particularly in the lower legs and feet.
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Medications: Certain medications can contribute to fluid retention, such as:
- Blood pressure medications (e.g., calcium channel blockers)
- Steroids
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Antidepressants
- Hormonal medications (e.g., birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy)
