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

The following medical conditions are some of the possible causes of swelling symptoms:

General possible causes of localized swelling:

Injury Infection

Skin swelling Dependent edema

Lymphatic obstruction Venous thrombosis

Some possible causes of skin swelling include:

Skin trauma Skin infection Cellulitis

Contact dermatitis Eczema Hives

Allergic reaction Insect bite Insect sting

Causes of generalized swelling:

Edema Premenstrual syndrome Pregnancy Preeclampsia Heart failure

Congestive heart failure Kidney conditions Nephritis Glomerulonephritis Nephrotic syndrome

Kidney failure Liver condition Cirrhosis of the liver Chronic hepatitis Varicose veins Lymphedema

Lymphatic obstruction Filariasis Protein deficiency Thyroid condition Malabsorption Celiac disease

Ulcerative colitis Malnutrition Beri-beri Certain medications Excessive IV fluid

Some possible causes of a swollen limb include:

Venous thrombosis Sunburn Lymphatic obstruction

Allergic reaction Cancer

Treatment

While it's possible for mild swelling to go away on its own, several things can be done to relieve the symptoms or hasten the process. The HI-RICE first aid method of rest and protecting the affected area has long been taught as a short term solution. The application of oxygen is known to assist in the reduction of swelling.

See also

• Edema
• Causes of edema
• Carpometacarpal bossing

External links

• NIH/Medline
• University of Maryland