Fluid buildup occurs when the body stores unneeded amounts of water. This buildup can make you feel uncomfortable and cause swelling of the body, especially around the face, hands, abdomen, breasts, and soles of the feet. There are several ways to treat fluid buildup, but it's best to see your doctor first and find out what's causing it. If you are taking medicines that cause fluid buildup, talk to your doctor to reduce this side effect.
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Method 1 of 2: Coping with Health Problems Associated with Fluid Accumulation
Step 1. See a doctor
The first thing you should do when you have fluid buildup is visit your doctor. The doctor will perform an examination and physical tests to determine the cause. There are various diseases that can cause fluid buildup, including:
- Heart disease, eg heart failure or cardiomyopathy
- Kidney failure
- Underactive thyroid gland
- Liver cirrhosis (liver)
- Problems with the lymphatic system
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Excess fat on the legs
- Burns or other injuries
- Pregnancy
- Overweight
- Malnutrition
Step 2. Investigate hormones as a possible cause
For women, fluid buildup is quite common before menstruation due to hormonal changes in the body. The contraceptive pill can also cause fluid buildup. The same goes for other hormonal medications, including hormone replacement therapy.
- If you experience a buildup of fluid before your period, this will usually subside some time after your menstrual cycle is complete.
- However, if the fluid buildup is causing you discomfort or it doesn't go away, your doctor may prescribe a diuretic. This drug will stimulate the processing of water in the body so that the accumulated fluid can be excreted through the urine.
Step 3. Ask your doctor about the side effects of the drug
If your diet is healthy and you're also fairly active, the fluid buildup may be a side effect of one or more of the medications you're currently taking. If the fluid buildup lasts for more than a few days, make an appointment with your doctor, and talk about how to reduce the fluid buildup caused by the side effects of the medication. Medications that can cause fluid buildup include:
- Antidepressants
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Some pain relievers
- High blood pressure drugs
Step 4. Ask your doctor whether you have heart or kidney failure
Both of these problems are very serious and can lead to fluid buildup in the body. In this case, the fluid buildup occurs suddenly and is severe. You will feel a clear and rapid change, as well as a large build-up of fluid, especially in the lower body.
If you are concerned about heart or kidney failure, contact your doctor as soon as possible. This disease has the potential to threaten your safety, and the sooner your doctor diagnoses both, the more effective the treatment will be
Method 2 of 2: Reducing Fluid Buildup
Step 1. Walk and move throughout the day
In those who rarely move, or anyone who works in a sitting position for long hours, the force of gravity will pull fluid into the lower body. This can lead to fluid buildup in the soles of the feet, ankles, and feet. Avoid this by walking a lot throughout the day. Stimulate your body's circulation, and fluid buildup will not occur in the lower body.
- This can also happen on long-haul flights that require passengers to stay motionless for hours.
- When flying international flights, make an effort to stand up and stretch, or walk around at least a few times.
Step 2. Lift and compress the swollen body part
If you're concerned about fluid buildup in the soles of your feet, ankles, and lower legs, remove the swollen body part. In this position, the force of gravity will help drain some of the fluid that has accumulated on the soles of the feet so that it can be distributed throughout the body.
For example, if the soles of your feet swell in the afternoon, lie down on the couch or bed propping your feet up with a pillow
Step 3. Put on compression stockings
If fluid buildup is common in the soles of your feet and ankles when you sit or stand, such as at work, consider buying compression stockings. These stockings will press the soles of the feet and lower legs to prevent fluid buildup in both parts of the body.
