Understanding Edema: Causes of Swelling and Protein Links

Why do legs swell after exercise or due to a lack of protein? Identifying the causes of pitting edema and localized swelling in the limbs or eyes is the first step toward effective treatment for malnutrition-linked edema.

Doctor examining the foot of a woman

Does a Lack of Protein Cause Leg Edema?

Many people experience edema from time to time. This temporary swelling usually occurs in the lower legs, ankles and feet. Inactivity and an unhealthy diet can lead to this type of swelling, although medical conditions may increase your risk of edema.

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Therapeutic leg massage

What Are the Causes of Bilateral Leg Edema?

Bilateral leg edema is swelling of the soft tissues of the legs. The condition can be merely a daily nuisance, or signal a serious underlying condition. A physician should be consulted to determine the cause and begin appropriate treatment. It has a number of causes, both anatomic and systemic.

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Lying down

Edema in Malnutrition

Your body uses a number of processes to maintain normal fluid balance. This balance requires that you get the proper intake of certain nutrients and electrolytes to keep your body running at its best.

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Woman's eye

What Are the Causes of Acute Periorbital Edema?

Edema is swelling caused by the build up of fluid in the cells or tissues. In acute periorbital edema, the eyelids and area around the eye are swollen. There are various causes for this disorder.

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What Are the Causes of Unilateral Upper Limb Edema?

Unilateral upper limb edema refers to the swelling of the soft tissues of either the right or left arm or hand. Edema is more common in the legs and feet. If it occurs in the upper extremity, it is usually due to problems with drainage of the blood or lymph from the arm.

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What Are the Causes of Pitting Edema?

Edema is a swelling caused by the build-up of abnormally large amounts of fluid accumulating in interstitial tissues, which represents the space surrounding the body’s cells and blood vessels.

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Exercise-Induced Edema in Lower Legs

Edema occurs when a large amount of fluid accumulates in the circulatory system. Edema is common in people above age 60, but anyone can be affected by it.

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Edema & Protein

Edema is swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in your body's tissues. Although it affects all parts of the body, one of the first indications of edema is typically the presence of swollen feet. While a low protein intake may be one of the many causes of edema, consult a doctor to determine the cause in your case.

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