SWELLING - WatsonsHealth

SWELLING

Swelling refers to the abnormal enlargement of the organs, skin or other parts of the body due to fluid build-up in such areas. Swelling can occur internally or externally and have several of causes.

Some of the causes of swelling are:

  • insect bites
  • kidney failure
  • heart failure
  • anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)
  • infection
  • hormonal changes
  • fluid-retention
  • injury
  • cyst or tumors

Swelling can be localized or widespread. Localized refers to swelling of one specific area or part of the body. Widespread means that the swelling has occurred to a larger area of the body. This type of swelling might be an indication of a more serious underlying medical problem.

Symptoms of external swelling may vary from internal swelling.

Symptoms of external swelling include:

  • itching
  • vomiting
  • flatulence
  • pain in the affected area

Symptoms of external swelling include:

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • dizziness
  • fever
  • fatigue
  • insomnia
  • flu-like symptoms
  • pain

DIAGNOSIS

First, your doctor is going to check the swelling and review your symptoms. He or she may also ask for your medical history to know what the possible cause of it. Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans and MRI’s are used to view arteries and veins, inflamed muscle or tissue, bone fractures or internal organs for any abnormalities. Once the underlying cause of swelling has been determined, the doctor may be able to prescribe the right treatment for it.

 

TREATMENT

The treatment for swelling will vary depending upon the cause. For allergy-related cause, your doctor may prescribe antihistamine relieve itching and swelling caused by rashes or hives. Anti-inflammatory drugs and topical steroid medication are also available to ease skin inflammation.

A tumor or abscess may require a surgical operation. If surgery is not applicable for the patient because of the complexity of the condition, the doctor may order chemotherapy or radiation to shrink the swelling.

 

PREVENTION

Swelling can be a part or a symptom of a much more serious disease caused by unhealthy habits. In that case, lifestyle changes and maintaining balanced diet may help reduce the risk of the diseases and swelling. To avoid swelling caused by an allergic reaction, you must avoid being in contact of the allergens. Safety precautions can help avoid swelling due to accidents.

Related Articles

TETRALOGY OF FALLOT

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect that affects the [...]

TRICHINOSIS

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trichinosis, also known as trichinellosis, is a parasitic infection caused by [...]

TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition characterized by severe facial pain. [...]