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Side Effects > Edema

Also see Lymphedema

Last update: 07/21/2011

Here we provide resources related to treatment-related edema - the retention of fluid in an organ or in the body that causes swelling.  

Signs of edema:  In addition to swelling and pain, the skin above the swollen area will be stretched and shiny.  When you press the skin a dimple may appear. 

IMPORTANT: Contact your doctor if you have persistent swelling, swelling accompanied by shortness of breath and weight gain, or swelling that damages the skin.


Factors that may cause edema or increase risk:

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Cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy

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Chemotherapy agents, such as:
 

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Prednisone (facial)

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Rituxan (tongue or throat swelling (angioedema))

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Sedentary life style - prolonged standing or sitting

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Obesity

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Some prescription drugs

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Severe chronic (long-term) lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis 

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Congestive heart failure, a condition in which the heart can no longer pump efficiently

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Low protein levels in the blood

Tips to Manage and Prevent

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Avoid prolonged standing or sitting - elevate limbs affected by edema

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Exercise regularly - within your limits

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Get adequate protein in your diet

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Limit salt consumption

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Use roll-on compression stockings

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Lose excess weight - but consult a nutritionist for help, especially when receiving treatment.

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Review your medications with your doctor to see if any contribute to swelling. 

IMPORTANT: "Any swollen area of the body should be protected from pressure, injury and extreme temperatures. The skin over swollen legs becomes more fragile over time." What is Edema - intelihealth.com

Resources:

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About Edema MedlinePlus

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What is Edema intelihealth.com

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Chemotherapy agents that increase risk of edema oncologychannel.com

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Ease Your Edema HON news

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Lymphedema - PAL

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Swelling MedlinePlus

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Here's another excellent resource on edema  http://www.hci.utah.edu/patientdocs/hci/drug_side_effects/edema.html

Condition-related resources:
 

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Foot Swelling during Air Travel: What Causes It? 
(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)

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Leg Swelling: A Concern If You Have Diabetes? 
(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)

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Pulmonary Edema 
(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)

 

Chemotherapy and Edema:

TOPIC SEARCH: chemotherapy agents that may affect vision: PubMed

Radiotherapy and Edema:

TOPIC SEARCH: radiotherapy and vision: PubMed

 

 
Disclaimer:  The information on Lymphomation.org is not intended to be a substitute for 
professional medical advice or to replace your relationship with a physician.
For all medical concerns, you should always consult your doctor. 
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