Dangers of Retaining Water

Water can be retained in tissue for many reasons.

Retaining water in the body, or fluid retention, is caused by the leakage of fluid into tissues. Fluid is often transported by the blood to vital organs, and at times, some of this fluid leaks into bodily tissues, where it remains. If the fluid is not removed from these tissues, then fluid retention occurs.

Causes of Water Retention

The body retains water in bodily tissues for many different reasons. Hot weather and burns cause water to remain in tissues because it is more difficult for water to drain in hot temperatures and because fluid may build beneath the skin if it is burned. Also, water may be retained as a result in alterations in hormones if a female is taking contraceptives, is experiencing a menstrual cycle, or is pregnant. A lack of nutrition in diet, particular medications, and venous conditions all may cause water to be retained in the body's tissues.

Dangers and Symptoms of Water Retention

Retaining water can result in several uncomfortable, painful or distressful symptoms, some of which can be dangerous. If fluid is being retained, the body, especially the feet and ankles, may swell because the tissues are being filled with water. Aching and stiffness of joints and other body parts are common, and water retention can cause you to gain weight very quickly over just a few days. In some cases, the skin may hold an indentation if pressure is applied. If this is the case, pitted edema, a form of fluid retention, is probable. If the skin holds no indentation, non pitted edema may be the ailment.

Conditions Associated with Water Retention

Though not always the case, water retention may be caused by or associated with several conditions or illnesses. Heart conditions or diseases may cause fluid to be retained. Also kidney disease or failure can cause water to build up in tissue. Diseases of the lungs, liver and thyroid might also be related to edema. Malignant lymphodema, a form of cancer, may result in excess water in tissues. Besides these conditions, arthritis or allergies may result in edema.

Treatment for Water Retention

After speaking with a physician, blood tests, urine tests and other examinations can be performed to determine whether you are retaining fluid. If the case of fluid retention is mild, physicians may encourage self treatments. Home treatments include the consumption of more water to decrease the improper retention of fluids, the decrease of sodium in the diet, the increase of vitamins B-5, B-6, and D, changes to the amount or type of prescribed medications, an increase in physical exercise, and the reduction of dehydrating drinks like alcohol and coffee.

References

• Fluid retention