Edema

Edema was formerly known as dropsy or hydropsy. Basically, it is the swelling of the body by the excess fluid deposited in the tissues. All tissues of the body are made up of cells and connective tissues that hold the cells together. This connective tissue around the cells and blood vessels is known as the interstitium. Most of the body's fluids found outside of the cells are normally stored in two spaces;

• The blood vessels (as the "liquid" or serum portion of your blood) and
• The interstitial spaces (not within the cells).

In Edema, excess fluid can accumulate in either one or both of those compartments. Swelling caused by edema commonly occurs in the hands, arms, ankles, legs and feet. It is usually linked to the venous or lymphatic systems.

Edema may be generalized or local. It can appear suddenly, but usually develops. The patient may first gain weight, or wake up with puffy eyes. Many patients wait until symptoms are well advanced before seeking medical help.

Symptoms

• Swelling or puffiness of the tissue under your skin (subcutaneous tissue)
• Stretched or shiny skin
• Skin that retains a dimple after being pressed for several seconds
• Increased abdominal size
• Shortness of breath, 
• Difficulty breathing when lying flat, 
• Waking up breathless,
• Requiring multiple pillows to raise the head at night for a comfortable sleep.

Popular treatments and recommendations  

• Reduction of salt intake, including salty foods such as olives, soy sauce, or pickles. Cutting back the amount of sodium eaten may help reduce edema.
• Limited use of alcohol, caffeine, sugar, and dairy products.
• Increased consumption of whole grain foods, cucumbers, apples, potatoes, grapes, onions, cabbage, and oranges.
• Daily vitamin and mineral supplements.
• Cleavers (Galium aparine), or bedstraw, is a mild diuretic herb that assists the kidneys in maintaining proper fluid balance. To make a tincture, gather fresh cleavers in the summer (or purchase through a health food store or mail order catalogue). Run the herbs through a blender with enough grain alcohol to make the blades run smoothly. Pour the mixture into a glass jar, shaking it daily for 2 weeks. Store it away from the sun, ensuring that the herbs are covered with alcohol so they will mold. Filter the blend through muslin or a coffee filter and store in a dropper bottle. Take 1-2 full drops of tincture by mouth 2-5 times a day.
• For a gentle stimulant, simmer 1 tablespoon of dried dandelion root in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes and drink 1 cup 3 times daily
• Pour ½ cup of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of dried nettle leaves; steep for about 15 minutes and drink 1 cup 3 times daily.

Prevention

• Wear support stockings or compression bandaging
• Do regular exercise
• Decrease salt intake
• If you are overweight, check your BMI (Body Mass Index) and loose weight. 
• Raise legs when sleeping & several times daily
• Do not stand or sit for long periods at a time
• Limit the use of alcohol, sugar, caffeine, and dairy products.

References

• http://www.medicinenet.com/edema/article.htm
• http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/159111.php
• http://www.bettermedicine.com/article/edema/symptoms
• http://www.emedicinehealth.com/edema/page2_em.htm#symptoms
• http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/edema/DS01035/DSECTION=symptoms
• http://www.naturalremedies.org/edema/