What Causes Fluid To Build Up Around The Ankles, Legs And Feet

An unusual accumulation of fluid in the body is referred to as water retention, fluid retention or edema. It can be generalized but mostly localized to specific part of the body. Because of the effect of gravity, swelling is especially noticeable in the lower extremities. It may affect both legs and may include the calves or even the thighs. Chances are you've experienced at least mild symptoms, but what causes fluid to build up around the ankles legs and feet? Here are several medical reasons for retaining fluid in the feet and ankles:

Chronic liver disease

Chronic liver disease is a disease process of the liver that involves a progressive damage and regeneration of the liver parenchyma leading to fibrosis and cirrhosis. As the damage prolonged, the liver will lose its normal function. Included in all the possible complications of chronic liver disease are ascites, portal hypertension and fluid retention in ankles, legs and feet.

Emphysema

Emphysema is a chronic respiratory disease indicated by an abnormal, permanent damage of the lungs. The sufferers will not be able to breath as normal as they should. This disorder is mainly caused by smoking. Symptoms of emphysema include shortness of breath, excess production of mucus, loss of appetite, tiredness, insomnia and chronic fatigue. As the disease advancing, the patients may retain fluid in the feet and ankles.

Heart disease

Any disease that causes the heart to stop working normally is referred to as heart disease. Several heart diseases include coronary heart disease, cardiomyopathy, cardiovascular disease and valvular heart disease. When the heart fails to provide the amount of blood needed by the whole body, many symptoms will occur. The patients may feel very tired or weak. They may also experience water retention in the ankles and legs.

Kidney disorder

Kidney disorder is a disease affecting the kidneys. The main risk factors of this disorder are administration of analgesics, xanthine oxidase deficiency, and long-term exposure to lead or its salts. Symptoms of kidney disorders include pain or a burning sensation during urination, fever, frequent urination, unable to control urination, blood in urine and salt retention leading to swelling around the face, eyes, ankles and feet.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease that causes inflammation in the synovial membranes and causes destruction in the ligaments, bones and the cartilages. Patients of rheumatoid arthritis usually experience signs of inflammation, with the affected joints being swollen, warm, tender, painful and stiff. Other symptoms including fatigue, low grade fever, general bodily discomfort, and loss of appetite, loss of weight and morning stiffness are common systemic manifestations present in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis.

Above are just a small list of the reasons for retaining fluid in the feet and ankles. It is in your best concern to immediately seek information from a doctor when you suffer severe fluid retention. Once you find out what causes fluid to build up around your ankles, legs and feet, effective treatment can be initiated.