Peripheral edemaisedema(accumulation of fluid causing swelling) in tissues perfused by theperipheral vascular system,usually in the lowerlimbs.In the most dependent parts of the body (those hangingdistally), it may be called dependent edema.
| Peripheral edema | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Peripheral oedema,[1][2]dependent edema |
 | |
| Legedema | |
Cause
editThe condition is commonly associated with vascular and cardiac changes associated withagingbut can be caused by many other conditions, includingcongestive heart failure,kidney failure,liver cirrhosis,portal hypertension,trauma,alcoholism,altitude sickness,pregnancy,hypertension,sickle cell anemia,acompromised lymphatic systemor merely long periods of time sitting or standing without moving.[3]Some medicines (e.g.amlodipine,pregabalin) may also cause or worsen the condition.[4]
Prognosis
editSuccessful treatment depends on control of the underlying cause. Severe swelling can cause permanent damage tonerves,resulting inperipheral neuropathy.Many cases from temporary or minor causes resolve on their own, with no lasting damage.[4]
References
edit- ^'Oedema' is the standard form defined in theConcise Oxford English Dictionary(2011); the spelling in the United States is 'edema'.
- ^"oedema".Oxford English Dictionary(Online ed.).Oxford University Press.(Subscription orparticipating institution membershiprequired.)
- ^Cho S, Atwood J (2002)."Peripheral edema"(PDF).Am J Med.113(7): 580–6.doi:10.1016/S0002-9343(02)01322-0.PMID12459405.
- ^ab"Lyrica – Pregabalin Capsule".Parke-Davis Division of Pfizer Incorporated. December 2016.Retrieved24 April2017.