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Mayo Clinic Housecall
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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffSigns and symptoms of water on the knee typically include:
- Swelling. One knee may appear larger than the other. Puffiness around the bony parts of your knee appears prominent when compared with your other knee.
- Stiffness. When your knee joint contains excess fluid, you may not be able to bend or straighten your knee as far as you normally could.
- Pain. Depending on the cause of the fluid buildup, the knee may be very painful — to the point that it's impossible to bear weight on it.
When to see a doctor
Seek prompt medical attention if:
- Self-care measures or prescribed medications don't relieve the pain and swelling
- One knee becomes red and feels warm to the touch as compared to your other knee
References
- Frequently asked questions about osteoarthritis of the knee. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00228. Accessed Jan. 18, 2010.
- Johnson MW. Acute knee effusions: A systematic approach to diagnosis. American Family Physician. 2000;61:2391.
- Mathison DJ, et al. Approach to knee effusions. Pediatric Emergency Care. 2009;25:773.
- Knee problems. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. http://www.niams.gov/Health_Info/Knee_Problems/default.asp. Accessed Jan. 18, 2010.
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