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There is fluid retention. Intercellular fluid in the body is increased, what to do?

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Many people experience retention of excess fluid in the body. First of all, this manifests itself in the form of swelling. Accordingly, they act as a reason extra pounds, shortness of breath and other “delights”.

How does excess fluid in the body manifest?

What could be the causes of edema and fluid retention in the body? There may be several of them. The formation and accumulation of gases is only one of them, and it can safely be called one of the most common. As a rule, intestinal gases accumulate. In this case, the most discomfort: flatulence, bloating, feeling as if something is bursting inside.

It is worth mentioning right away that the manifestation of such processes can temporarily be considered the norm. However, a prolonged condition must be managed with the help of a medical practitioner.

There is another opinion regarding the causes of edema formation. The amount of fluid in the body and, accordingly, the presence of stagnation processes are also affected by the phases of the moon.

What it is?

However, before talking about excess fluid in the body and its stagnation, it is worth understanding what it is. In fact, the water that is in the human body is a combination of salts, the water molecules themselves, electrolytes and other components. All of them are in certain proportional “relations”. Their number is controlled by the kidneys and regulated by hormones. That is why all this liquid, which, by the way, makes up up to 70% of the total body weight, contributes to the optimal development of various processes in the body. It is very important that all components are in balance with respect to each other. In particular, water and sodium ions must be in balance. Otherwise, a failure occurs. Then the kidneys stop excreting water, but, on the contrary, begin to accumulate it. The body needs this to dilute sodium ions. In such a situation, water retention in the body is inevitable.

It is equally important to understand that the bulk of water is concentrated in the cells of the body. However, a certain amount of liquid is present in lymphatic system and blood vessels. There is also such a thing as intercellular fluid. From the name it becomes clear where it is concentrated.

In science there is a special term that designates this place: interstitial space.

It is believed that all excess water accumulates in the interstitial space. As a result, all tissues become swollen. By the way, determining whether there is excess intercellular fluid in the body is quite simple. To do this you should thumb put more pressure on the body, for example, on the leg. If an imprint or small “dimple” is formed, which remains unchanged for several seconds, this indicates the presence of excess fluid in the body.

Experts say that the feeling of swelling, which often accompanies such a problem, is not yet an indicator of fluid accumulation in the intercellular space. Sometimes this indicates the elementary movement of water from one part to another. As an example: fluid can move into body tissue from the bloodstream, and such problems may occur. unpleasant reactions. For this reason, sometimes the arms or legs swell. But this is not critical and goes away quickly.

Main causes of the problem

What other reasons could cause fluid retention in the body? Experts point to hormonal imbalances. As a rule, this happens in women before the onset of menstruation. At the same time, fluid retention becomes a problem for approximately 70% of women. The same thing happens during pregnancy. The whole point is that the second half of the cycle is marked by the powerful production of hormones. It is believed that progesterone is produced several times stronger after ovulation. This process is associated with the removal of water and salts from the body, that is, you should not worry about the presence of edema: there should not be any. However, this mechanism does not always work correctly.

There is a theory according to which aldocortin (this is one of the counter-regulatory hormones), coupled with antidiuretic substances, block normal fluid excretion. This is due to the fact that such “helpers” slow down the dehydration process. Often these substances are too active. This is why excess fluid remains in the body.

When naming the reasons for fluid retention in a woman’s body, one cannot help but mention pregnancy. In this situation, hormones are also often the culprit. The whole point here is that blood vessels They turn out to be expanded and easily let through all the liquid, including excess. In this case, the kidneys block the movement of sodium ions. As a result, all the water systematically accumulates in the lower part of the body. For this reason, pregnant women often experience severe swelling of their feet and legs in general.

Among other reasons that cause swelling, it is worth noting overeating. Excessive food intake provokes increased production of insulin. This, in turn, directly affects metabolism, which results in retention of both water and sodium.

Other factors should also be noted. So, here's what retains water in the body:

  • too wet weather;
  • heat and heat;
  • allergic reaction;
  • cuts.

In addition, salt retains water in the body, just like coffee.

Simple but effective methods to solve the problem

However, you can get rid of puffiness with the help of folk remedies. But it is worth noting that they “work” if water stagnation is not caused by metabolic failures or hormonal problems.

To get rid of the problem, you should eat as little salty food as possible. Water is literally attracted to those tissues in which salts are deposited. Accordingly, it is not excreted by the body, causing the formation of edema. If you minimize the consumption of salty foods and normalize drinking regime, then the problem will go away on its own, and the kidneys will work more productively.

Normal also saves from edema physical activity. Especially in this regard, aerobic exercises show themselves well, which:

  • promote proper distribution of fluid in the body;
  • activate lymph circulation;
  • normalize activities circulatory system;
  • help to launch an optimal sweating regime.

There is no need to worry about the last point. After all, it is with sweat that they leave the body extra salt and water.

Many people do not know how to get rid of excess fluid in the body. It's actually easier than it seems. Simply adjusting your diet is enough. Must be consumed more products with a slight diuretic effect. These are herbal, black, green teas, fennel, cranberry juice, eggplant, coriander, parsley, cardamom. It is equally important to exclude canned and processed foods from the menu.

It is recommended to minimize consumption simple carbohydrates. It's worth betting on protein food and fiber. Also, do not forget about a sufficient amount clean water in the diet. You need to drink at least 1.3-1.8 liters per day.

You also need to pay attention to medications, which are used constantly. Some of them can provoke the formation of edema. If possible, they should be replaced with safer minerals. But you shouldn’t experiment with health. Only a doctor can prescribe other medications! A good helper Lymphatic drainage massage will help fight excess fluid in the body.

Fluid retention, or swelling, occurs due to the fact that too much fluid accumulates in the tissues.

  • This phenomenon may be associated with a certain pathology, for example, circulatory disorders, heart failure, kidney or liver diseases.
  • Fluid retention may also occur simply due to dilation of the veins when a person has a fever.

It causes the following consequences:

  • Seemingly causeless weight gain
  • Swelling of the legs, especially in the ankles
  • Increased waist size and decreased need to go to the toilet.

Edema usually occurs in people of the “third age”. But sometimes they are diagnosed in teenagers.

Fluid retention is especially common in women. Its cause is usually hormonal problems and not proper nutrition.

As mentioned above, fluid retention may indicate certain problems with the heart and blood vessels, kidneys, liver and stomach.

It often occurs during menopause or pregnancy, as well as due to a sedentary lifestyle.

What signs indicate fluid retention?

1. Heaviness in the legs

Fluid retention primarily affects " lower limbs", so you need to pay Special attention on the condition of your legs and feet.

When fluid is retained in the body (primarily in the legs), lymphatic drainage is impaired and a person experiences a feeling of fatigue and heaviness in the legs.

2. Swelling ankles

When fluid is retained, ankles often swell.

Due to the accumulation of fluid in the legs, the ankles increase significantly in size in the evening.

3. Leg cramps

The legs also swell, although we don’t always notice it.

Fluid retention is signaled, in addition to a feeling of weakness in the legs, by regular cramps in this part of the body.

4. Inflammatory processes in the intestines and stomach

Another part of the body that can be used to judge fluid retention is the abdomen. Sometimes we think that we have gained weight, but in fact the stomach may increase in size due to swelling and bloating caused by fluid retention.

People may go on a strict diet without realizing that an enlarged belly is not due to excess calories, but to fluid retention.

5. Facial swelling

The face often swells. Cheekbones and eyelids noticeably increase in appearance.

Generally the face is “rounded”.

Necessary measures

If there is fluid retention, you should do the following:

Drink more water.

Strange as it may seem, but Fluid retention can be caused by body dehydration(liquid accumulates as if in reserve).

You need to drink as much water as your body needs, then excess fluid will not accumulate in your body.

Go to low calorie diet and limit salt intake.

Do physical exercise, they are useful for almost all health problems. Physical activity Helps remove excess fluid through sweat and urine and improves blood circulation.

Training should be daily and last at least 20 minutes.

Drink infusions with diuretic properties. Infusions of dandelion, dill and parsley, green teahelp remove from the body excess liquid.

Also include the following vegetables in your diet: like carrots and cucumber, and fruits like watermelon and melon.

And:

  • Eat more foods that are high in potassium. Corn, cauliflower, bananas and asparagus, due to their high potassium content, help fight fluid retention.
  • Do not drink drinks that cause dehydration. This is alcohol, especially beer and vodka, and coffee. As mentioned above, the body, sensing a lack of fluid, tries to accumulate it.
  • Include enough protein foods in your diet- meat, fish, seafood and legumes. Lack of protein also causes fluid retention.
  • Don't wear clothes that are too tight. It is not very convenient and, in addition, with fluid retention promotes additional swelling of the body.
  • Move more. If you have to sit constantly at work, get up and do a five-minute stretch every hour. This helps the body not stay in “sedentary mode” for too long.
  • Avoid exposure to high temperatures.

Water is the source of human life. If it begins to accumulate in the body, excess weight and swelling appear. This may trigger the development serious illnesses. Will help to cope with this problem simple methods, accessible to everyone.

Where does excess water in the body come from?

If water accumulates in your body, it does not mean that you are drinking too much. Attempts to reduce the amount of drinks consumed will only worsen the situation and lead to the development of diseases.

IN healthy body water, having fulfilled its function, is excreted naturally. If excess moisture accumulates, you should pay attention to the health of your kidneys and heart. The cause of this problem can be serious illnesses.

Important! If you are concerned about excess water in your body, immediately undergo a full medical examination.

In most cases, moisture accumulation is associated with a person’s poor lifestyle. Use harmful products violates water-salt balance, which leads to the appearance of edema and overweight bodies.

Why is water retained in the body?

Excess moisture - serious problem. Before starting its treatment, it is necessary to accurately determine the cause of its occurrence. The most common of them are:

  1. Chronic diseases of cardio-vascular system. If such a problem is diagnosed, correct complex measures to eliminate edema are prescribed by the attending physician.
  2. Disturbance of metabolic processes in the body.
  3. Kidney diseases.
  4. Excessive salt intake. One molecule of salt can retain up to twenty molecules of liquid in the human body. Therefore, introduce as little salty foods as possible into your diet.
  5. Alcohol abuse. Especially it concerns ethyl alcohol. This substance retains water in the body and causes edema.
  6. Drinking in evening time. If you drink a lot of liquid after 20.00, then it does not have time to be fully eliminated.
  7. Insufficient amount of clean water consumed. For normal life the body needs clean drinking water. Juices, lemonades, teas and other drinks are not suitable for this purpose. If there is not enough water, the body begins to save it.
  8. Lack of adequate physical activity. An inactive lifestyle leads to disruption of metabolic processes, and this provokes moisture stagnation. Fitness will help correct the situation.
  9. Excess permissible norm diuretics.
  10. Poor nutrition. The modern pace of life increasingly forces us to resort to fast food and convenience foods. These products are rich in fats, flavor enhancers, preservatives, salt and other harmful substances. As a result of such nutrition, the condition of the heart, liver and kidneys worsens, and edema appears.

Only after you have correctly identified the cause of the problem can you select the appropriate treatment program.

List of products that help remove fluid

If the cause of swelling and excess weight is poor nutrition, then you need to immediately change your diet.

Do not forget! Nutrition should be varied and balanced. You can’t go on mono-diets, as this can lead to serious complications.

Vegetables, cereals, fruits, berries and some drinks will help expel excess liquid. Among healthy fruits and berries stand out:

  1. Watermelon. Its use helps cleanse the kidneys and improve them normal work. The correct hemoglobin level is restored.
  2. Bananas. They increase the concentration of serotonin in the blood and have a positive effect on mental activity. Thanks to this, it is easier for a person to cope with stress, reducing Negative influence stress.
  3. Melon. Good for the cardiovascular system. Reduces the likelihood of vascular atherosclerosis.
  4. Kiwi. Helps cleanse blood vessels, which improves the functioning of the heart and all internal organs.
  5. Cranberry. Has a mild diuretic effect.

Introduce as much fresh fruit into your diet as possible. You can use them to prepare salads dressed with natural yogurt. A healing cranberry juice will help complement this dish.

Vegetables are brought invaluable benefits for human health. The following will help you get rid of swelling:

  1. Cabbage. Effectively removes excess water from the body.
  2. Beet. Has a diuretic effect, restores the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
  3. Celery. Rich in vitamins and microelements that prevent the accumulation of moisture in cells.
  4. Zucchini. Reduce blood cholesterol levels and relieve swelling.
  5. Cucumbers. Remove salt from the body. Regular use cucumbers are an excellent prevention of intestinal diseases.
  6. Potato. Helps restore water balance.

Vegetables are best consumed raw, so they will bring more benefits. In addition, they can be steamed, stewed, boiled and baked.

Cereals will also help remove excess moisture. Be sure to include in your diet:

  1. Rice. It will cleanse the body of accumulated toxins and waste and help strengthen muscles.
  2. Buckwheat. Restores the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, prevents the appearance of atherosclerosis.
  3. Oatmeal. It will charge you with energy, which will help you cope better with physical activity.

Cereals can be used as an independent dish. Oatmeal makes a great breakfast. If its taste is not very pleasant for you, add sugar, prunes or fresh fruits. Then it will turn into a real delicacy.

By regularly consuming foods that remove water, you will lose excess weight and solve the problem of puffiness.

Does coffee help remove excess fluid?

The debate about the dangers and benefits of coffee has not subsided for a very long time. The diuretic properties of coffee have been proven in many studies. But such a means of combating excess fluid cannot be called safe. It has a number of contraindications.

Important! Only natural coffee is a diuretic. Consumption of a soluble product of dubious quality does not bring positive effect.

Coffee removes water, but you shouldn’t get carried away with it. Drinking more than three small cups of the drink per day can lead to serious health problems.

There are a number of contraindications in which it is better to avoid coffee altogether:

  • Cardiovascular diseases. High blood pressure.
  • Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Pregnancy.
  • Elderly age. This is due to the fact that coffee can wash calcium from the body, and this provokes the development of problems with the musculoskeletal system.
  • Problems with the nervous system.

In this regard, coffee as a diuretic is not large quantities Can only be used by healthy people.

We remove excess fluid through diet

Experts have developed several effective diets, which help get rid of excess moisture and excess weight. The most common are:

  • Kefir

It involves consuming up to 1.5 liters of this fermented milk product per day. This dietary change lasts for a week.

On the first day, up to five boiled potatoes are allowed together with kefir. In the second about 100 grams of boiled chicken fillet. On the third day, treat yourself to 100 grams of boiled veal. Fourth day – 100 grams any lean fish, boiled or baked. On the fifth day, eat any vegetables and fruits. On the sixth day you can’t eat anything except kefir. On the seventh day, drink more mineral water without gas.

  • Eastern diet

To lose weight and remove puffiness, you should give up salt and carbohydrates. It is prohibited to consume honey, eggs, sugar, confectionery, baked goods, alcohol, yeast, salty foods, mayonnaise, butter, smoked foods, chips. Replace dairy products with soy analogues. Eat more raw fruits and vegetables. Introduce cereals, legumes and herbal decoctions into your diet.

Do not forget! A strict diet is always stressful for the body. Before resorting to it, consult your doctor.

Instead of strictly limiting your diet, try to properly structure your diet. Balanced diet and physical exercise much more effective than any diet.

Fighting swelling with vitamins

Lack of vitamins is a fairly common cause of water stagnation in the body. Specialized medications will help solve the problem. Before choosing a specific drug, undergo a medical examination, which will help your doctor develop a prescription for you. correct scheme taking vitamins.

Vitamins that remove water:

  • B5 or pantothenic acid. This substance takes an active part in the process of removing fluid from cells. Its deficiency manifests itself in the appearance pain in muscles, insomnia, attacks of nausea. In order for pantothenic acid to be fully absorbed, it must be consumed together with vitamin D. This substance is found in large quantities in cauliflower, eggs and whole grains.
  • B1 or thiamine. Participates in carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism. Its deficiency can be determined by the appearance of swelling and numbness in the limbs. Found in legumes, liver and whole grains.
  • B6 or pyridoxine. Helps properly digest proteins and fats. Eliminates muscle spasms and numbness in the hands. Has a diuretic effect. Found in bananas, chicken, sea ​​fish and wheat sprouts.
  • P or flavonoids. Strengthens the walls of blood vessels, relieves swelling. Contained in various spices, fruits and vegetables.

If your diet is rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, then there should be no vitamin deficiency. Otherwise, purchase a vitamin-mineral complex at the pharmacy.

Will potassium help remove fluid?

Potassium plays a special role in the fight against swelling. This substance has been proven to help remove excess fluid from body cells and prevent urinary retention.

To cover daily norm of this substance, introduce cabbage, legumes, potatoes, bananas, watermelon, avocado, milk, fish and liver into your diet. In addition, cereals are rich in potassium, sunflower seeds and nuts.

You need to consume from 1800 to 5000 mg of potassium per day. The exact value depends on individual characteristics organism, level physical activity and the climate in which people live.

Important! Potassium remains in products after heat treatment. That's why ready meals no less healthy than raw vegetables.

When cooking, try not to use water. It will leach potassium from foods. It is better to bake or stew foods.

Bath procedures are an excellent method of combating swelling

A great way to remove water is to visit a bathhouse. This procedure promotes the active formation of sweat. Metabolism is normalized, the body is freed from excess fat.

All moisture is released through the skin, which reduces the load on the kidneys. The bath is allowed even for people suffering from kidney disease. At the same time, harmful substances, such as sodium, urea, sulfur, iron and others.

To achieve the effect, you should visit the bathhouse every week.

Medicinal herbs and traditional methods of combating edema

Traditional medicine offers a lot of recipes that help cope with this problem. Among them are:

  1. Lemongrass has a diuretic effect. Grind the root of this plant. Pour one tablespoon of boiling water and leave for 20 minutes. Filter the product and dilute with a glass boiled water. Take 2 tsp. three times a day.
  2. Pour a teaspoon of chopped burdock root into 0.5 liters of boiling water. Leave it on all night. Divide the liquid into equal parts and drink throughout the day.
  3. Mix one teaspoon each of birch leaves and knotweed. Pour 200 ml of boiling water and leave for 30 minutes. Drink half a glass twice a day.
  4. Baking soda will help get rid of swelling. It is added to the bath in an amount of 200 grams. This procedure is carried out for at least 10 minutes. After this, lie under a warm blanket for 40 minutes.

Such available funds will help remove excess fluid and reduce body weight.

Diuretics

IN severe cases It is impossible to do without the use of specialized drugs. Specific water-removing tablets are selected by the attending physician after a medical examination. Most often prescribed:

  1. Furosemide.
  2. Bumetanide.
  3. Piretanide.
  4. Indapamide.
  5. Metal shop.

Before using them, carefully read the instructions and study all contraindications.

Excess moisture in the body is a serious problem. Proper nutrition, exercise and exercise will help you cope with it. folk remedies. All these measures must be applied together. Then you will reduce your weight and get rid of swelling.

Fluid retention in the body is not just a cause of excess weight. Pronounced and hidden swelling may indicate organic changes and pathologies.

Treatment of fluid retention in the body is required for symptoms:

  • no matter how much was drunk in the evening and what was eaten, in the morning there are “bags” under the eyes;
  • periodically, water collects in the shin area - when pressed with a finger, a hole is formed on the body;
  • When food is restricted, body weight increases and the amount of urine excreted decreases.

A one-time use of diuretics in the above cases does not help.

Without finding out the reasons for fluid retention in the body, it is impossible to normalize the condition.

Causes of edema - no treatment required

If “bags” appear once under the eyes or swelling on the calves, you need to remember the evening menu. If you ate salty or spicy food in the evening, and then drank it to drown out the feeling of thirst, then there is nothing to be surprised at. Salt retains the fluid entering the body, the water-electrolyte balance is disturbed. Treatment of fluid retention in this case is not required; internal balance in healthy people is restored independently.

The body swells if for a long time wear tight clothes. The lymphatic ducts are pinched, and lymph accumulates in the surrounding tissues. In these cases, it is enough to change clothes or loosen a tight belt - the swelling will disappear quickly enough. To speed up the process, you can vigorously rub the skin.

Natural physiological processes can be explained by fluid retention before menstruation. The body is preparing for cleansing, accumulating salt and water - otherwise blood loss will be felt general condition. After the endometrium is rejected, the accumulated water also leaves along with the plasma. For some women, the accumulation of fluid is practically not felt, while for others it fills up - their belly becomes noticeable, their mammary glands become heavier.

If the condition before menstruation causes concern, you should increase the amount of foods with vitamins E and B6, calcium and magnesium in your diet. These are fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, lean fish, vegetable oils. It is advisable to replace coffee and strong black tea green tea, berry and fruit drinks and compotes.

During menopause, fluid retention in the body also occurs.


This may be due to natural age-related changes– fluid is not removed from the body, as the production of progesterone is disrupted. In this case, you also need a diet, or rather, a balanced diet.

It is necessary to unload yourself - it will be easier for the body to cope with the transition to another age group. But we must not forget - during menopause they worsen chronic diseases, the aging of the body begins. If edema is associated with organic changes - the appearance arterial hypertension, kidney diseases and the like, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Tired legs, heat, sedentary lifestyle life, by-effect from taking some medicines- For example, hormonal contraceptives. All these reasons influence metabolic processes, they slow down. The accumulation of water increases weight, increases blood pressure, and negatively affects general health and appearance.

There is no clear advice on what to do in such situations.

You can advise staying on your feet less, drinking fresh water and green tea, which has a mild diuretic effect, overcoming immobility and your own laziness at least once an hour and doing several exercises, asking your doctor to choose a more suitable drug, and reducing the amount of salt in your diet. All advice must be compared with your lifestyle.

Since the above conditions do not pose a danger to health and life, then health care not required.

Dangerous causes of edema

If women notice fluid retention in the body during pregnancy, it is necessary to notify the doctor. This symptom indicates a malfunction organic systems, most often urinary. A pregnant woman's blood pressure rises, nausea and dizziness occur.

Late gestosis during pregnancy is dangerous for mother and baby - there is a risk of:

  • kidney dysfunction – nephropathy – the body is poisoned with toxins;
  • vision problems and disorders begin nervous system, protein appears in the urine - preeclampsia;
  • convulsive attacks with pathological changes cardiovascular system – eclampsia.

Edema in a pregnant woman is very dangerous; if doctors suggest hospitalization, it is not recommended to refuse.

Treatment is required if the following symptoms are observed:


  • Swelling regularly appears in the ankle area;
  • appear - it would seem - causeless attacks wet cough;
  • after physical effort, and sometimes even at rest, shortness of breath is felt.

These signs indicate a malfunction of the cardiovascular system. If treatment is not started on time, it will appear internal swelling– the abdomen will increase, water may accumulate in the lungs.

Ascites is a serious problem. In this case, fluid removal can be carried out using drainage - the body is unlikely to cope on its own, even with the help of diuretics.

Some symptoms cardiovascular diseases not much different from a disorder of the urinary system. If kidney function is impaired, swelling also occurs in the legs and under the eyes and blood pressure increases. Appetite worsens, but despite this, it appears excess weight. Features kidney disease – the quality and quantity of urine changes.

It becomes denser, the color is more saturated or darker. You can visually see foreign inclusions in it; it foams. The number of urinations decreases, as does the amount of urine produced.

Treatment is selected after diagnosis.

If not confirmed renal failure, can be assigned:

  • diuretics – medical and herbal decoctions;
  • go to special diet– reducing the amount of salt in the diet;
  • extended drinking regime.

In some cases it is necessary antibacterial drugs or sulfa drugs.

Cardiac edema intensifies in the evening; in case of kidney disease, bags under the eyes and ankles swell after a night's rest

Swelling can be a symptom of liver cirrhosis. In this case, ascites is also observed - fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity. Hepatitis causes cirrhosis of various etiologies, endocrine disorders, congenital liver failure, alcohol abuse. Additional symptomsincreased fatigue, loss of appetite, constant feeling nausea.

The normal flow of fluid from the body may be disrupted due to allergic reaction. The production of antibodies to the irritant causes spasm of blood vessels and lymphatic ducts, kidney function deteriorates, and water begins to accumulate in the body. The faster you break off contact with the allergen and drink antihistamine, the faster metabolic processes are restored.

How to reduce swelling

Self-medication severe conditions- a dangerous occupation. If supplied serious diagnosis, then you need to listen to the doctor and not engage in "amateur".

But why not do something if fluid retention in the body occurs periodically and no discomfort is felt.

The accumulation of fluid in the body can be observed by various reasons, But excess water causes serious complications with health. First of all, this has a negative impact on weight; a person begins to rapidly gain weight. overweight, he may experience severe swelling of the legs and arms. Needless to say, what difficulties a person experiences when these signs are present. For this reason, you need to know how to get rid of excess fluid in the body. If you suddenly begin to notice constant swelling in yourself, then you should immediately consult a doctor who can conduct an examination and prescribe the necessary treatment.

Causes of water accumulation in the body

Fluid retention in the body can occur for various reasons. But any of them will cause the appearance severe swelling fabrics.

The reasons for fluid retention in the body may be the following:

  • the presence of pathologies of the kidneys and cardiovascular system;
  • the occurrence of hormonal imbalance;
  • peculiarities menstrual cycle among women;
  • insufficient fluid intake;
  • increased consumption of drinks with diuretic effects;
  • eating a lot of salt;
  • slow metabolism, which is associated with insufficient activity;
  • working conditions in which you have to constantly be in sitting position.

Excess fluid in the body usually occurs due to health problems. For this reason, it is not recommended to start removing it yourself; it is best to first find out the main reason for its delay. Removal of water is recommended after identifying the underlying disease leading to its accumulation, and this process must be performed according to the recommendations of the attending physician.

Only people who can remove water from the body on their own can healthy people. Moreover, if the main problem lies in poor nutrition or lack of physical fitness.

What hormones cause water accumulation

Hormone-dependent fluid retention in the body is the occurrence of excess water due to menstrual irregularities. Violation observed hormonal levels, which is accompanied by an increase in body weight and the formation of edema.

When the menstrual cycle is disrupted, fluid is retained in the body because a conflict arises between the hormone progesterone, which ensures the removal of excess water and salts, and aldosterone and adiuretin, hormones that prevent dehydration.

Often this condition occurs during pregnancy:

  • a process of sodium retention occurs in the kidneys, and the blood vessels cannot free themselves from fluid. As a result, it penetrates into the intercellular space;
  • This process occurs from top to bottom, so the main impact is on the area of ​​the feet.

Hormone-dependent stagnation of fluid in the body can occur in women during the use of hormonal contraceptives together with drugs that contain the hormone estrogen.

Sometimes water retention in the body occurs during menopause. The main reason This process during this period may be the presence of increased levels of sodium ions. During therapeutic therapy it is necessary to regulate the state of hormonal levels using a special therapeutic treatment, the use of vitamin preparations is also prescribed.

If suddenly excess fluid appears in the body, many immediately begin to take emergency actions and simply stop drinking liquid, which is strictly not recommended, because this can make the condition much worse. Under no circumstances should you make such a decision on your own; all actions should be discussed with your doctor.

Some people immediately begin to use diuretics when swelling appears. These actions are often taken without the knowledge of a specialist, which can cause harm to health.

The use of medications causes fluid deficiency because they can remove not only excess water, but also useful.

How to recognize the disease by the type of swelling

You can understand that there is a lot of water in the body by characteristic features. The main sign that there may be excess fluid in the body is the appearance severe swelling in a certain part of the body, a person can also feel severe discomfort, fatigue.

How can we determine why there is excess water in the body? Usually this condition indicates serious disorders in the body. How to determine the type of disease by swelling yourself? The table below shows the locations of edema for each type of disease.

Type of edema Symptoms
Various kidney pathologies Presence of swollen eyelids and bags under the eyes. Typically these symptoms occur in morning time and disappear in the evening.
Disorders of the cardiovascular system Swelling of the legs occurs in the evening, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath.
Allergy This condition involves noticeable swelling of a specific area of ​​the body. There may be noticeable pallor in the area of ​​swelling skin. A state of anxiety and difficulty breathing also occurs. To the touch, the swelling has an elastic structure.
Endocrine system diseases The presence of swelling of the tongue, shoulders. Fatigue, loss of strength, weight gain.
Varicose veins A state of heaviness in the legs. The veins become very inflamed, dilate, and there is a feeling of itching and cramping.

Excess fluid can cause many problems, so it is important to know how to get rid of it without harm to your health. But this can be done in cases where its increase is not caused by serious diseases:

  1. It is worth limiting the consumption of drinks containing alcohol.
  2. Must be adhered to balanced nutrition. It is worth eliminating from your menu products with increased content salt, as well as fried, smoked, fatty, high-carbohydrate dishes. You should consult your doctor, he may prescribe fasting days.
  3. It is recommended to include products in the menu that normalize the water balance in the body. These products include watermelon, nettle, sorrel, and celery. But watermelon should not be consumed every day, because this berry has a pronounced diuretic effect. It can be eaten in fasting days, as well as to cleanse the body of waste and toxins in a short period.
  4. You need to drink about 1.5-2 liters of water per day. At night, about 3 hours before bedtime, you should limit your water intake. Gradually the body will adapt to normal mode and will stop storing fluid.
  5. You definitely need to move often. Even if the work takes place in a sitting position, it is necessary to take short breaks of 15 minutes, during which it is recommended to warm up.
  6. Reception contrast shower will speed up the process of removing excess fluid from the body. Alternately changing the water will speed up the blood circulation process and increase immune system. To eliminate swelling of the legs, contrast baths are often used.
  7. Taking salt baths. The bath should be filled with water at a temperature of 38 degrees, then 200 grams of salt are poured into it and baking soda. You should take a bath for 20 minutes. After this, it is recommended to cover yourself with a warm blanket for 30 minutes. Then take a shower. Be sure not to eat anything two hours before this procedure.
  8. It is recommended to regularly visit saunas and steam baths. In saunas or baths, excess fluid is actively removed and the cardiovascular system is strengthened.
  9. It is worth wearing comfortable shoes. Tight shoes and high heels cause development varicose veins veins
  10. A good way to actively remove fluid from the body is to use the menu that is used on fasting days. Within 1-2 days, you can use the unloading system, which will help get rid of swelling for a long period. Pumpkin juices, milk tea, oatmeal, boiled in water, kefir with low fat content.
  11. Application vitamin complexes. Lack of vitamin B and magnesium causes increased accumulation of fluid in the body. For this reason, it is necessary to increase the level of these vitamins.
  12. Use of massages. These procedures improve blood circulation, have a relaxing effect, and also reduce the concentration of stress hormones in the body, which cause fluid accumulation in the body.

Fluid removal products

If fluid is poorly removed from the body, it is recommended to use special products that cause active removal of water:

  • watermelon. This berry has a diuretic and cleansing effect on the body. It can also be replaced with cucumbers and melon. These components can be consumed once a week on fasting days. This will help cleanse the kidneys and remove excess water;
  • Birch juice. This natural drink is able to remove not only water, but also various harmful components;
  • You should definitely drink green tea. This drink helps actively cleanse the body of toxins, and is also necessary for fluid retention;
  • rice and oatmeal. These types of cereals cause rapid elimination excess fluid from the body. For example, rice cereal contains increased level potassium, which causes active excretion of water. For this reason, this product is used by many athletes when drying before competitions;
  • fruits and vegetables. It is recommended to use them in fresh. Fresh vegetables and fruits contribute rapid recovery salt balance in the body;
  • zucchini and cabbage. They have a diuretic effect and also actively remove fluid from the body. At the same time, these ingredients restore the required level of elements such as copper, potassium, iron;
  • you should drink as much carrot and beet juice as possible. These drinks will not only remove excess water, but will also replenish the body's essential vitamins and strengthen the immune system.

How to eliminate swelling during pregnancy

During pregnancy, women often experience swelling, especially in the feet. This is the result of active restructuring of the body, which causes fluid retention. There is nothing dangerous, but often swelling can cause discomfort, discomfort, and can sometimes negatively affect the development of the child.

In order to reduce or completely eliminate swelling, it is recommended to do the following:

  1. First of all, it is recommended to normalize your diet. It is worth limiting the consumption of salt, canned, pickled, smoked foods. It is advisable to consume fresh fruits and vegetables as much as possible.
  2. It is recommended to consume citrus fruits, but in moderation. You can drink 1 glass of freshly squeezed water per day orange juice or eat 1-2 oranges.
  3. You can use diuretics, but not medications. Pregnant women are advised to include it in their diet natural products with diuretic effect– apples, carrots, strawberries, zucchini and others.
  4. Sometimes you can drink herbal infusions, but before using them, you should consult your doctor. The thing is that some herbs have contraindications and can cause side effects.

Use of folk remedies

What to do if swelling appears? The first step is to identify the underlying cause of these symptoms.. If this state is not caused by serious violations, then you can use herbal remedies homemade. But it is better to consult your doctor first, because some herbs have contraindications.

Water balance can be adjusted using the following herbal recipes:

  • Chamomile decoction. Chamomile has high level useful properties, and also removes excess fluid from the body. For the decoction you will need 50-70 grams of chamomile leaves, which are poured with 500 ml of water. The mixture should be kept in a water bath for about 30 minutes. After the broth has cooled, you need to drink ½ glass before meals.
  • Lingonberry leaves and berries. 50 grams of the mixture is poured into a glass and poured hot water. Let it stand for about an hour. It is recommended to drink 1 tbsp. after meal.
  • A decoction of birch leaves. 2 tablespoons of leaves pour into a glass hot water. The decoction is infused for about an hour. Next, the broth is filtered and a pinch of soda is added to it. Should be taken 1 tsp. 2-3 times a day.

You can get rid of excess fluid in the body on your own, but only if its accumulation is not caused by serious pathologies. The main thing is to follow all the recommendations and eat the right foods. But it is better to undergo a preliminary examination, because a large number of water may be due to serious illnesses that only a specialist can cure.