You know that feeling of being so bloated? That familiar heavy and dragging feeling, as if you were stuffed to the brim with water, makes us all uncomfortable and may happen at any time. It can happen anywhere and anytime making it inconvenient for all of us. This phenomenon is called water retention also known by the medical term “edema”. It is the result of the water leaking into the body tissues from the blood and causes swelling. It is most common around the feet and legs. Nevertheless, it also occurs in the hands and arms. More often than not, it is referred to as bloating.
There are a number of reasons why the body keeps the water in the system. These reasons may vary based on gender. For example, women during the time of their menstrual period will experience bloating. This is due to the hormones which cause kidneys to retain water instead of the usual flushing it out. Some other reasons for women are pregnancy, oral contraceptives and menopause. A high salt intake, reaction to hot weather (the body is less efficient at removing fluid from tissues); nutritional deficiencies and sunburns (as skin retains flue in reaction to burns) are also some causes of bloating. Serious diseases such as heart failure, liver disease, arthritis, allergic reactions, thyroid disease, lung diseases and kidney diseases can cause water retention. It is caused by gravity, when standing up for long periods of times results to the collection of water in the tissues of the lower leg.
Symptoms of fluid retention range, from swelling of affected body parts, stiff joints, weight gain or loss in a few days and in some cases, skin holds the indent-shape when pressed (also called as pitting oedema).
A rule of thumb is to seek medical attention if the swelling lasts for weeks or is extremely uncomfortable. If salt intake is the cause of water retention, eating bananas and other foods which are high in potassium is a reliable home remedy. Another is flushing it out with diuretics like cranberry juice, or believe it or not, drinking water too (this helps to flush out the salt, the more hydrated the better). If you like herms, Uva Ursi, Horse Chestnut and Buchu are good, along with Dandelions and Olea Europea to balance blood pressure, assist liver and bladder, overall leading to a better circulation of blood flow. There are also several self-care methods in order to help fluid retention. Avoiding processed foods and manufactured meats help reduce salt intake (this may also include avoiding potato chips and the like). Cutting back on dehydrating drinks such as tea, coffee and alcohol, helps lessen the chances of bloating. If your legs are bloated, it is also helpful to lie down with your legs higher than your head. Icing the area may help bring down swelling and discomfort. Some people also find that exercises help to flush out water.
The best advice however is to go straight to a doctor because you never know you’re suffering more than just fluid retention. A doctor is the best and most reliable source if you’re searching for a reason as to why you are bloated.
