Swelling (medical)
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview[edit | edit source]
In medical parlance, swelling is the enlargement of organs caused by accumulation of excess fluid in tissues, called edema.
It can occur throughout the body (generalized), or a specific part or organ can be affected (localized). Swelling is considered one of the five characteristics of inflammation; along with pain, heat, redness, and loss of function.
In a general sense, the suffix "-megaly" is used to indicate a growth, as in hepatomegaly, acromegaly, and splenomegaly.
A body part may swell in response to injury, infection, or disease, as well as because of an underlying lump. Swelling — especially swelling of the ankle can also occur if the body is not circulating fluid well.
Generalized swelling, or massive edema (also called anasarca), is a common sign in severely ill people. Although slight edema may be difficult to detect to the untrained eye, especially in an overweight person, massive edema is very obvious.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The following medical conditions are some of the possible causes of swelling symptoms:
General possible causes of localized swelling:
Some possible causes of skin swelling include:
Causes of generalized swelling:
Some possible causes of a swollen limb include:
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Treatment[edit | edit source]
While it's possible for mild swelling to go away on its own, several things can be done to relieve the symptoms or haste the process. The HI-RICE first aid method of rest and protecting the affected area has long been taught as a short term solution.
Related Chapters[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
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