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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staff
Signs and symptoms of edema include:
- Swelling or puffiness of the tissue under your skin (subcutaneous tissue)
- Stretched or shiny skin
- Skin that retains a dimple after being pressed for several seconds
- Increased abdominal size
When to see a doctor
Make an appointment to see your doctor if you have any of the signs or symptoms of edema, such as swelling, stretched or shiny skin, or skin that retains a dimple after being pressed.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs or symptoms of edema in your lungs (pulmonary edema), including:
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
Pulmonary edema is a potentially life-threatening condition. Diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary edema differ from other forms of edema.
- Clein LJ. Edema. In: Walsh D, et al. Palliative Medicine. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2009. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/157842131-7/0/2038/165.html?tocnode=57251136&fromURL=165.html. Accessed Sept. 3, 2009.
- Rose BD. General principles of the treatment of edema in adults. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Sept. 3, 2009.
- Braunwald E, et al. Edema. In: Fauci AS, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Medical; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aid=2863869. Accessed Sept. 3, 2009.
- Rose BD. Pathophysiology and etiology of edema in adults. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Sept. 3, 2009.
- Rose BD. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of edema in adults. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Sept. 3, 2009.
- O'brien JG, et al. Treatment of edema. American Family Physician. 2005;71:2111.
