What water retention is and how to reduce it

Water retention, also known as oedema, results from excessive buildup of fluid in the body tissues. It can be generalized (affecting the whole body) or localized (affecting only specific body parts). In a properly functioning body, excessive water is drawn out of the cells and into the blood stream by the lymphatic system in order to facilitate its expulsion from the body.  Fluid retention can be either mild or severe. Mild cases may occur after consumption of a meal high in sodium while severe cases can result in extreme conditions such as water buildup in the lungs which may make it difficult to breathe. Water retention can cause swelling in the feet, abdomen, face, ears and other body parts. Water retention may also cause feelings of stiffness and bloating, as well as weight fluctuations in different people.

However, it is easily treatable both at home and by a health professional. It is always important to seek medical help if you are experiencing constant symptoms in order to prevent it from developing into more serious conditions.

Symptoms

• Swelling in the affected body parts such as hands, feet, abdomen and face.
• Weight fluctuations and rapid weight gain.
• Bloating in the abdomen and a general feeling of fullness.
• Stiffness and aching especially in the joints.
• Pitting oedema where pressed skin retains the indentation.

 

Causes

Oedema has several causes including but not limited to:

1. Hot weather which makes it harder for the body to remove fluids.
2. Pregnancy and the use of contraceptives; Pregnancy hormones and hormones in contraceptives increase the body’s water retention capacity.
3. Consuming excessive salt.
4. Vitamin and protein deficiencies.
5. Conditions such as kidney disease, lung disease, hypothyroidism and arthritis.

 

How to treat and prevent water retention

• Herbal Water Retention Tablets
• Doctor prescribed diuretics
• Treatment of underlying medical conditions.
• Physical aids such as support stockings.
• Reduce the amount of salt consumed, do not add salt while cooking and avoiding adding raw salt to already cooked meals. Avoid high sodium snacks such as potato crisps, some nuts and processed meats like salami, ham and hot dogs.
• Use natural diuretics such as dandelion leaf and horsetail.
• Drink plenty of water in order to flush out toxins from the system.
• Engage in regular, vigorous exercise such as brisk walking, running and cycling in order to push fluids through blood capillaries and encourage fluid expulsion.
• With proper treatment and management, you should be able to reduce fluid retention, get rid of feelings of bloating and even manage to shed water weight for a slim and healthy body.