Edema treatment
Oedema management is a complex process. Oedema is a condition where fluid builds up between tissues in a part of the body, leading to swelling and swelling. Edema can be localized (in a specific area) or generalized (over the whole body). Fluid can accumulate under the skin (subcutaneous edema), between muscles (muscular edema), around joints (synovial edema), or in other tissues.
Oedema can most commonly develop from the following causes:
In the case of heart disease or heart failure, the body is unable to remove excess fluid effectively, which can lead to edema.
In areas of injury or inflammation, the permeability of blood vessels increases, which can lead to fluid accumulation.
Lymphedema is caused by complete immobility (e.g. paralysed limb, severe bed rest) or disease affecting the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is responsible for removing fluid from tissues, and if this system is not working properly, oedema develops.
Oedema treatment
The treatment of oedema depends on the underlying cause! Each case may be different. Some general information:
In heart and kidney disease, the aim of oedema treatment is to achieve better heart and kidney function. These are usually treated with medication and by optimising fluid intake and salt balance. Setting the right oedema management is a medical task. In heart and kidney disease, compression treatments are not appropriate because they can increase the workload on the heart and worsen the overall condition.
Compression therapy - this involves the application of external pressure. Edema (fluid) is located between tissues and can be "displaced" by external pressure. For example, if the arm or leg is oedematous, by compressing the limb, the oedema fluid can be directed to an area with better circulation and the oedema will be absorbed. In a full-body oedematous condition, such as cardiovascular disease, this method is not helpful.
Compression is primarily used for lymphoedema, swelling due to injury, varicose vein insufficiency and residual symptoms 3 months after thrombosis. Mechanical lymphatic massage therapy (i.e. compression therapy) for paralysis or prolonged bed rest helps to improve circulation in the immobile limb and reduce limb swelling.- Physical therapy methods and especially muscle stimulation (EMS). Bemer therapy, magnetotherapy, soft laser and ultrasound therapy are suitable for local stimulation of lymphatic circulation.
EMS can be of great help in the treatment of lower limb oedema in particular. EMS induces rhythmic contraction of the muscles - the lower part of the blood circulation in the leg. People who can walk and move around a lot are less likely to develop oedema.
It is important to know that the treatment of oedema depends mainly on the cause of the oedema, so everyone may need a different treatment! Do not start treatment on your own, based on self-diagnosis!
Get expert advice to help you choose the right therapy for you!