Water under the skin. Water Blisters: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention Guide

02.03.202213.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are water blisters. How do they form. What causes water blisters. When should you see a doctor for water blisters. How can water blisters be properly drained at home. What are the best ways to prevent water blisters from forming.

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Understanding Water Blisters: What They Are and How They Form

Water blisters, medically known as vesicles (small blisters) or bullae (larger blisters), are fluid-filled sacs that form on the skin. These protective pads develop when the outer layer of skin is damaged, prompting the body to send blood to heal and cool the injured area. The blisters consist of blood serum without clotting agents and blood cells, serving as a natural defense mechanism.

How do water blisters form? When skin experiences trauma or irritation, the body’s healing response includes forming a protective layer of fluid between damaged skin layers. This fluid cushions the affected area and promotes healing of the underlying tissue.

The Composition of Water Blisters

What exactly is inside a water blister? The fluid within these blisters is primarily composed of:

Water
Electrolytes
Proteins
White blood cells

This combination of elements aids in the healing process and protects the damaged skin from further harm.

Common Causes of Water Blisters: From Friction to Infections

Water blisters can arise from various sources, ranging from everyday activities to specific medical conditions. Understanding these causes can help in prevention and appropriate treatment. Here are some of the most common reasons for water blister formation:

Friction: Repeated rubbing against skin, often from ill-fitting shoes or tools
Burns: Including heat burns, chemical burns, and sunburns
Contact dermatitis: Skin reaction to irritants or allergens
Eczema: Chronic skin condition causing inflammation and blistering
Allergic reactions: Skin response to allergens
Plant-induced blisters: Contact with poison ivy, oak, or sumac
Viral infections: Such as herpes, chickenpox, and shingles
Bacterial skin infections: Like impetigo
Frostbite: Skin damage from extreme cold

Can emotional stress cause water blisters? While stress itself doesn’t directly cause water blisters, it can exacerbate conditions like eczema or herpes outbreaks, which may lead to blister formation.

The Healing Process: How Water Blisters Resolve Naturally

In most cases, water blisters will heal on their own without intervention. The skin covering the blister serves a crucial purpose in the healing process. How does this natural healing occur?

Protection: The blister’s roof shields the damaged area from bacteria and further irritation.
New skin formation: Fresh skin cells grow beneath the blister.
Fluid reabsorption: The body gradually absorbs the fluid inside the blister.
Skin shedding: Once healing is complete, the outer layer of skin naturally peels away.

How long does it typically take for a water blister to heal? The healing time can vary depending on the size and cause of the blister, but most will resolve within 3-7 days.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Water Blisters

While most water blisters are harmless and heal on their own, certain situations warrant medical attention. It’s crucial to recognize these signs to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

When should you contact a doctor about a water blister? Consider seeking medical help if:

The blister shows signs of infection (pus, swelling, redness, warmth, or pain in the surrounding area)
You develop a fever
Multiple blisters appear without an apparent cause
Drainage continues after you’ve drained the blister
You have poor circulation or diabetes
The blister is unusually large or painful

Why is it especially important for people with diabetes to seek medical attention for blisters? Individuals with diabetes often have reduced sensation in their extremities and may be more prone to infections, making proper blister care crucial to prevent complications.

Safe and Effective Methods for Draining Water Blisters

While it’s generally best to leave water blisters intact, there may be instances where draining is necessary, particularly if the blister is large, painful, or likely to rupture on its own. If you decide to drain a blister, it’s essential to follow proper sterilization and care procedures to minimize the risk of infection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Draining a Water Blister

Wash your hands, the blister, and the surrounding area with warm water and soap.
Apply iodine to the blister and surrounding skin using an absorbent pad.
Sterilize a sharp needle with rubbing alcohol.
Carefully puncture the blister near its edge in a few spots, allowing fluid to drain while keeping the overlying skin intact.
Apply petroleum jelly or a similar ointment to the area.
Cover the blister with a non-stick gauze bandage.

Why is it important to keep the skin over the blister intact when draining? The overlying skin acts as a natural barrier against infection and aids in the healing process. Removing it prematurely can increase the risk of complications.

Post-Drainage Care

After draining a water blister, proper follow-up care is crucial:

Check daily for signs of infection
After a few days, carefully remove dead skin using sterilized scissors and tweezers
Apply more ointment and rebandage the area
Keep the area clean and protected until fully healed

Preventive Measures: Reducing the Risk of Water Blister Formation

Prevention is often the best approach when it comes to water blisters. By understanding common causes and taking appropriate precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing these uncomfortable skin conditions.

General Prevention Tips

How can you prevent water blisters from forming?

Avoid known triggers or irritants
Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure
Wear properly fitting shoes and clothing
Use protective gear when engaging in activities that may cause friction or pressure on the skin
Keep your skin moisturized to maintain its elasticity and resilience

Area-Specific Prevention Strategies

Different parts of the body may require specific prevention techniques:

Feet:

Wear well-fitting shoes
Use moisture-wicking socks
Apply moleskin to areas prone to rubbing
Use foot powder to reduce friction

Hands:

Wear appropriate gloves for tasks
Use hand powder to minimize moisture and friction

Body, Arms, and Legs:

Choose clothing that doesn’t cause chafing
Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics
Apply petroleum jelly to areas prone to rubbing

Why is moisture management important in preventing water blisters? Excess moisture can soften the skin, making it more susceptible to friction and subsequent blister formation. By keeping skin dry, you reduce the likelihood of blisters developing.

Exploring Alternative Treatments and Home Remedies for Water Blisters

While conventional treatments are effective, some individuals prefer to explore alternative or natural remedies for water blisters. It’s important to note that these methods should be approached with caution and are not substitutes for medical advice when needed.

Natural Remedies for Water Blisters

What are some home remedies that may help with water blister healing?

Aloe vera gel: Known for its soothing and healing properties
Green tea compresses: May help reduce inflammation
Witch hazel: Can act as an astringent and reduce swelling
Tea tree oil: Has antimicrobial properties (should be diluted before use)
Calendula cream: May promote skin healing

How can these natural remedies be safely applied to water blisters? Always clean the affected area before applying any remedy. Use gentle, patting motions rather than rubbing, and avoid breaking the blister if it’s still intact. If you experience any irritation or worsening of symptoms, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Lifestyle Adjustments to Support Healing

Beyond topical treatments, certain lifestyle changes can support the healing process and prevent future blisters:

Stay hydrated to support overall skin health
Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E to promote skin repair
Get adequate sleep to support your body’s healing processes
Manage stress levels, as high stress can impair wound healing
Avoid picking or popping blisters to prevent infection

Why is a holistic approach beneficial in managing water blisters? By addressing overall health and lifestyle factors, you create an environment conducive to faster healing and improved skin resilience, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of future blisters.

Understanding the Complications and Risks Associated with Water Blisters

While water blisters are generally harmless, certain circumstances can lead to complications. Being aware of these risks can help you take appropriate action and seek medical attention when necessary.

Potential Complications of Water Blisters

What complications can arise from water blisters?

Infection: If bacteria enter the blister, particularly if it’s popped improperly
Cellulitis: A more serious skin infection that can spread to deeper layers
Scarring: Especially if blisters are picked at or become infected
Delayed healing: Particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems or poor circulation
Pain and discomfort: Which can interfere with daily activities

How can you recognize signs of an infected water blister? Watch for increased redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or the presence of pus. If you notice these symptoms, or if you develop a fever, seek medical attention promptly.

Special Considerations for At-Risk Groups

Certain individuals may be at higher risk for complications from water blisters:

People with diabetes
Those with compromised immune systems
Individuals with poor circulation
People with certain skin conditions, like eczema

Why do these groups need to be especially vigilant about water blisters? These conditions can impair the body’s natural healing processes or increase susceptibility to infections, making proper care and monitoring of blisters crucial to prevent more serious health issues.

Blisters with Water: Causes, Treatment, Draining, Prevention

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Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. D., MPH — By Scott Frothingham — Updated on May 5, 2023

Water blisters are fluid-filled sacs on your skin. They are relatively common and will usually heal on their own. If the blister is large or painful, you may want to consider draining it.

Referred to as vesicles (small blisters) and bullae (larger blisters), water blisters can have a variety of causes.

When the outer layer of your skin is damaged, your body sends blood to heal and cool the injured area.

Part of that process is the formation of protective pads comprised of blood serum (without the clotting agents and blood cells). These serum pads are water blisters.

Some common reasons water blisters occur are:

friction
burns from heat, chemicals, or the sun
contact dermatitis
eczema
an allergic reaction
poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac
viral infections such as herpes, chickenpox, and shingles
skin infections such as impetigo
frostbite

Blisters will usually heal on their own with the skin over the blister helping to keep out infection while new skin is formed underneath and the fluid is absorbed.

To keep a blister clean and to protect it from friction, you can cover it with a bandage.

Contact your doctor if:

the blister shows signs of infection such as pus, or the area around the blister becomes swollen, red, warm, or painful
you develop a fever
you have several blisters and you can’t identify what’s causing them
you continue to see drainage after you’ve drained the blister
you have poor circulation or diabetes

If your blister is large, painful, or likely to be aggravated and pop on its own, you might consider draining it.

To properly drain the fluid while leaving the top skin in place for shielding, there are specific steps you should take. These include:

Wash the blister, the area around it, and your hands with warm water and soap.
Use an absorbent pad to apply iodine to the blister and surrounding area.
Wipe a sharp needle with rubbing alcohol to sterilize it.
Aiming for spots near the blister’s edge, puncture it a few times with the needle.
Allow the fluid to drain, while leaving the overlying skin in place.
Spread the blister area with petroleum jelly or a similar ointment.
Cover the blister with a non-stick gauze bandage.

Follow-up care

Check for any signs of infection daily.
After a few days, using small, sharp scissors and tweezers — wiped with rubbing alcohol to sterilize — cut away all the dead skin.
Apply more ointment and cover the area with a bandage.

The general rule of blister prevention is to stay away from whatever caused the blister.

It’s overly simple, but it also makes sense: If you got blisters from getting a sunburn, spend less time in the sun (or wear more protective clothing and sunscreen).

For specific body parts, here are a few prevention tips to keep in mind:

Feet

Wear shoes that fit properly.
Wear moisture-wicking socks.
Attach moleskin to the inside of your shoe where it rubs against your foot.
Put powder in your socks just prior to putting them on.

Hands

Wear gloves.
Put powder in your gloves just prior to putting them on.

Body, arms, and legs

Avoid wearing clothing thatcauses chafing.
Wear moisture-wicking clothing.
Apply petroleum jelly to areas that are rubbed by other body parts or clothing.

Water blisters are common and, if left alone, will typically heal on their own.

If a blister grows, becomes painful, or seems likely to be irritated, you might consider draining it using proper sterilization steps and bandaging the open wound. There are steps you can take to prevent blisters, including shoe, sock, and clothing choices.

If you can’t determine the origin of a blister, blister drainage continues after it’s been drained, or if a blister shows signs of infection, contact your doctor.

Last medically reviewed on October 12, 2018

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

5 ways to avoid blisters and the best way to treat them. (2015).
health.clevelandclinic.org/5-ways-to-avoid-blisters-and-the-best-ways-treat-them/
American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). How to prevent and treat blisters.
aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/injured-skin/blisters
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Blisters: First aid.
mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-blisters/basics/art-20056691
U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2016). Blisters.
medlineplus.gov/blisters.html

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

May 5, 2023

Written By

Scott Frothingham

Edited By

Claire Brocato

Oct 12, 2018

Medically Reviewed By

Alana Biggers, MD, MPH

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Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. D., MPH — By Scott Frothingham — Updated on May 5, 2023

Water retention (fluid retention): Causes, symptoms, and treatments

Water or fluid retention occurs when the body is unable to maintain fluid levels. Kidney or cardiovascular disease, for instance, may cause the body to retain fluid. The main symptoms are swelling and discomfort.

The circulatory system, the kidneys, the lymphatic system, hormonal factors, and other bodily systems help maintain healthy fluid levels. If a problem arises with one or more of these systems, however, fluid retention — otherwise known as edema — can occur.

Edema can affect any area of the body. It happens for a variety of reasons.

This article will look at some causes and symptoms of water retention, as well as how to treat it.

The human body uses a complex system to regulate its water levels. Hormonal factors, the cardiovascular system, the urinary system, the liver, and the kidneys all play a role. If there is a problem with any of these parts, the body may be unable to expel fluid as it should.

Capillary damage

Capillaries are tiny blood vessels with a key role in managing fluid balance in the body. Some medications, such as those for high blood pressure, can cause damage to the capillaries.

Capillaries deliver fluid to surrounding tissues. This fluid, called interstitial fluid, supplies nutrients and oxygen to cells. After delivering the nutrients, the fluid returns to the capillaries.

If the capillaries sustain damage, edema can occur. Possible problems include changes in pressure inside the capillaries and the capillary walls becoming too leaky.

If these problems occur, too much liquid can leave the capillaries and enter the spaces between cells. If the capillaries cannot reabsorb the fluid, it will stay in the tissues, causing swelling and water retention.

Some people experience this type of edema because they have a rare condition known as systemic leaky capillary syndrome.

Congestive heart failure

The pumping action of the heart helps maintain normal pressure within the blood vessels. If a person’s heart stops working effectively, their blood pressure will change. Fluid retention can arise from this.

There may be swelling in the legs, feet, and ankles, as well as fluid in the lungs, which can result in long-term cough or breathing difficulties.

Eventually, congestive heart failure can lead to breathing problems and stress on the heart. It can therefore be life threatening.

The lymphatic system

The lymphatic system carries lymph through the body. Lymph is a fluid that contains white blood cells. It helps the immune system defend the body against infection. As the lymphatic system delivers and reabsorbs lymphatic fluid, it also helps the body maintain fluid balance.

If a problem prevents the lymphatic system from working properly, fluid can build up around the tissues. This can cause swelling in various parts of the body, including the abdomen, ankles, legs, and feet.

Cancer, infections, and blockages can all cause problems with this system.

Learn more about all forms of cancer in our dedicated hub.

The kidneys

The kidneys filter the blood and help maintain fluid levels in the body.

Waste, fluids, and other substances pass into tiny tubules in the kidneys, which act as a filter. The bloodstream reabsorbs anything the body can reuse and removes the waste in the urine.

If the kidneys do not work properly, they cannot remove waste material, including fluids and sodium. The fluid will therefore stay in the body.

People with chronic kidney disease, for example, may notice swelling in the lower limbs, hands, or face.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body holds more water than usual, leading to swelling in the lower limbs — especially during hot weather or after standing for a long time.

Hormonal changes and carrying extra weight in the abdomen can also contribute. This is not usually dangerous, and it mostly resolves after delivery.

If the swelling suddenly becomes more severe, however, it may be a sign of pre-eclampsia. This is a type of high blood pressure that can harm both the mother and the fetus.

Anyone who experiences headaches, vomiting, pain under the ribs, vision problems, along with increased swelling during pregnancy, should seek immediate medical attention.

Physical inactivity

People with mobility problems or a sedentary lifestyle can develop edema in the lower legs. Underuse can cause the calf muscle pump to lose strength.

It may help to:

keep the feet raised
wear compression stockings
practice exercises, such as raising and lowering the feet or rotating the ankles

Obesity

People with obesity may experience swelling due to the extra weight they carry. Obesity also increases the risk of high blood pressure, kidney disease, and heart disease, all of which can result in edema.

Obesity also increases the risk of metabolic syndrome, which includes type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and other health issues.

Malnutrition

Albumin is a protein that helps the human body manage fluids. When a person has a severe protein deficiency, it may be harder for the body to move interstitial fluid back into the capillaries.

When a person is severely malnourished, they may develop kwashiorkor. Symptoms include a loss of muscle mass and an enlarged abdomen. This is due to fluid retention in the bodily tissues.

What is malnutrition, and who is at risk? Learn more here.

Infections and allergies

The immune system’s role is to defend the body from disease and infection. When the immune system detects an unwanted invader, such as bacteria or an allergen, it will mount an attack. Inflammation is part of this process.

When inflammation occurs, the body releases histamine. Histamine causes the gaps between the cells of the capillary walls to widen. It does this to allow infection-fighting white blood cells to reach the site of inflammation.

However, it can also allow fluid to leak from the capillaries into the surrounding tissues. The swelling that results from this is usually short-term.

People with long-term inflammation may experience water retention.

Medications

Some medications can also lead to water retention.

These include:

calcium channel blockers
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
gabapentin
some hormonal therapies, including some birth control pills
prednisone, which is a corticosteroid
some diabetes medications

Anyone concerned about swelling while using medication should speak to their doctor. They may be able to change the dosage or suggest an alternative.

Edema can develop when a person uses birth control pills. What other adverse effects can arise? Find out here.

Hormonal conditions

A hormonal imbalance can lead to fluid retention in the following ways:

Menstruation: Changes in hormonal balance can result in fluid buildup before menstruation. A person may experience bloating and breast tenderness as a result.
Thyroid problems: The thyroid gland releases hormones that play a role in managing fluid levels. People with conditions that affect the thyroid gland may therefore experience water retention.
Cushing’s syndrome: This condition causes the adrenal gland to produce too much steroid hormone, leading to leg swelling.

Dependent edema occurs when fluid pools in the lower part of the body. Learn more here.

The symptoms of fluid retention will depend on the area it affects. Common areas include the lower legs, the hands, the abdomen, and the chest.

In the limbs, feet, and hands, symptoms include:

swelling
changes in skin color
shiny or puffy skin
areas of skin that remain indented when pushed in with a finger, known as pitting edema
aches and tenderness in the limbs
stiffness in the joints
weight gain

Fluid retention can also affect the following areas:

The brain

Fluid retention in the brain is known as cerebral edema. This can cause symptoms including vomiting, blurred vision, headache, and difficulty with balance. This can be life threatening.

The lungs

Excess fluid in the lungs, or pulmonary edema, can indicate a serious problem with the heart or respiratory system. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, a cough, chest pain, and weakness, which can affect the lungs’ ability to supply oxygen to the body.

Many cases of edema will resolve without treatment. If there is an underlying condition, a doctor will focus on treating that.

Diuretics are one treatment option. They can help the kidneys remove fluid from the body. These are usually short-term options, however, as they can cause side effects such as dehydration, increased water retention, and kidney damage.

Some causes of fluid retention need medical treatment, but home remedies may help relieve the symptoms. The sections below discuss some of these in more detail.

Herbal remedies

Some herbs are natural diuretics. Some people believe that the extract of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) may help reduce the amount of water the body retains in a day.

However, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes that as a food, dandelion is “generally considered safe,” although there is no scientific evidence to show that it has any medicinal use or that it is safe as a treatment. Some people may also have an allergy to it.

A person should speak to a doctor before using this or other herbal remedy. Diuretics may not be safe for people with low blood pressure or taking other medications that affect fluid and electrolyte balance.

Elevation

If a person has edema in their lower limbs, it may help to:

sit with the legs raised above the heart several times each day
sleep with the affected limb on a pillow to raise it above the level of the heart
have a massage, in which someone strokes the affected area firmly but gently toward the heart

Clothing

People with edema may wish to wear loose clothing, as it will be more comfortable and allow fluid to circulate.

Use support stockings to increase circulation in the lower limbs.

One method of managing water retention is through dietary changes.

For example, studies show that sodium consumption can increase water retention. Limiting salt content in the diet can help to keep sodium levels in a healthful range, decreasing water retention.

Other research has found magnesium supplements can reduce many premenstrual symptoms, including water retention and bloating.

To reduce or prevent water retention, try:

managing weight
getting regular exercise
wearing support stockings, if edema affects the lower limbs
avoiding sitting or standing still for too long
taking breaks to walk around during long journeys
avoiding extreme temperatures, such as hot baths, showers, and saunas

Although it is not always possible to prevent fluid retention, following a healthful diet and getting plenty of exercise can help reduce the risk.

Water retention, also known as edema and fluid retention, is a buildup of fluid in the body. This can occur in cavities, tissues, and the circulatory system.

The primary symptom of water retention is swelling. Most cases of water retention resolve without medical intervention and maintaining a healthful diet and lifestyle balance can often prevent the condition.

How to quickly remove excess fluid from the body?

Contents

The main causes of edema and fluid retention in the body

How to remove excess fluid from the body – ways

Normalization of nutrition

Fasting days

Physical exercises

Relaxing bathtubs

At least 2-2. 5 liters of water should be consumed daily. However, many people notice that the fluid is retained, due to which body weight increases, swelling develops. By listening to the recommendations of experts on how to remove excess fluid from the body, it will be possible to solve the problem on your own. Getting rid of accumulated fluid at home is not a problem, because there are a large number of ways to remove water.

The main causes of edema and fluid retention in the body

There are specific reasons that provoke the accumulation of fluid in the human body:

genetic predisposition;
adversely affects the functioning of the lymphatic system violation of the water-salt balance;
bad habits, consumption of a large amount of junk food and low mobility;
injuries, heavy physical labor or sports;
failure in hormones, provoked by diseases of the endocrine system;
accumulation of lymph can be observed due to allergies and inflammation;
water is retained in the tissues and interstitial spaces due to excessive consumption of diuretics;
stressful situations, depression, anxiety.

According to experts, the main causes of water stagnation are diseases associated with problems in the functioning of the renal, cardiac and vascular systems.

How to remove excess fluid from the body – methods

It is important to understand that water retention is only a consequence of some pathological processes in the body. Using one of the effective methods, it will be possible to normalize the water balance in the tissues.

Power normalization

The rules of nutrition, which must be observed with edema and excess fluid, play an important role and are mandatory in a comprehensive recovery at home. Experts say that a high-quality diet, when the amount of lymph deviates from normal indicators upwards, is the key to eliminating excesses. In addition, systematic adherence to the basic principles of a healthy diet makes it possible to reduce the risk of water accumulation in the body.

Primarily at home, you should:

normalize the drinking regime;
reduce salt intake, as it provokes swelling.

To calculate the rate of water consumption per day, you can apply the following formula: weight (kg) x 0.03 (if activity is high x 0.04) = amount of water (l). For example: Body weight 80 kg x 0.03 \u003d 2.4 liters is the normal amount of water per day.

It is necessary to exclude from the diet any unnatural food, which contains chemical elements that are harmful to the body. Should be removed from the diet:

acute;
smoked meats;
greasy and fried foods.

It is necessary to remove foods with a high sugar content from the menu. Benefits will bring green tea and herbal drinks. Dietary nutrition with stagnation of lymphatic fluid provides for the complete rejection of alcohol.

The diet must include food with a high content of K, Mg. In the morning, it is right to consume food that contains predominantly complex carbohydrates.

Vegetable and fruit products that have a diuretic effect should be added to the menu. It will not only eliminate the accumulated water, but also enrich the cells with nutrients. You also need to consume more:

green;
cereals;
fish dishes;
fermented milk products.

The main thing to understand is that it is necessary to observe the time of consumption of food. Dinner should be at least 3 hours before the night’s rest.

There are certain products that remove excess fluid from the body and simultaneously supply useful substances and vitamins to the cells.

Simpler and more effective include:

lemon;
celery;
beets;
marrow;
cranberry juice;
parsley;
oats;
tomatoes;
ginger;
cucumber;
watermelon;
carrots.

In reasonable quantities, you can consume coffee and other caffeinated drinks that will affect the removal of excess fluid from the body.

Fasting days

It will be possible to remove the accumulated water from the body by short-term fasting. Fasting days are different: based on drinking or on mono-nutrition. For high-quality weight loss, it is important to drink at least 1 liter of clean water on a fasting day. Any suitable method of unloading should be carefully chosen, carried out at least once a week, trying to alternate a healthy diet.

Unloading on kefir: 1.5 liters of low-fat fermented milk drink per day will help to significantly reduce body weight, eliminate puffiness, and other manifestations of excess fluid.

Unloading day on pumpkin juice:

will eliminate the accumulated water in the body;
will provide vitamins.

The main thing is that pumpkin juice should be natural, it is better to take a freshly squeezed product.

Unloading should not be frequent, 1-2 days a week is enough.

Physical exercise

Physical methods for eliminating excess fluid from the body are actively used both independently and in combination with other therapeutic measures. To normalize the water-salt balance in the body, it is correct to practice any physical exercises in cycles:

walk fast;
run;
swim;
ride a bicycle, etc.

With active movement, muscle tissue increases the speed of the flow of lymphatic fluid, thereby increasing the excretion of stagnant water and slag substances from the body.

You can eliminate the liquid by using a set of such exercises:

birch;
bicycle;
cat;
skydiver rise.

To achieve a positive result from physical education, you need to gradually increase the duration and strength of the loads. These rules must not be violated, since an organism unprepared for sports can receive serious harm instead of the expected benefit. When choosing physical exercises, one should take into account the state of health, take into account the age criterion and the individual capabilities of the body.

If loads are contraindicated, to improve the movement of lymphatic fluid and the functional state of the body, experts advise using exercises that are easier to implement and require moderate muscle tension. Eg:

toe walking;
turns;
slopes;
raising legs from a lying position.

When performing exercises, you need to breathe deeply, do not hold the air. Inhale should be through the nose. Perform all movements while exhaling, and inhale the air, returning to the starting position.

Relax baths

An effective method of removing excess water is a hot bath, which alleviates the condition and improves the quality of life.

A popular procedure is using soda combined with sea salt. To prepare, you need to take a bath to half and dilute in it:

250 grams of soda;
500 grams of salt.

Water temperature should be within +37-39 ⁰ C. It is necessary to stay in a therapeutic bath for no longer than a quarter of an hour.

If you want, you can increase the therapeutic result of this procedure by including about 20 drops of essential oil in the product:

grapefruit;
orange;
geranium oil.

Essential compounds not only normalize metabolism at the cellular level, but also tone and rejuvenate the skin. And knowing which products remove excess fluid from the body, and combining them with other methods, you can quickly achieve a positive effect, relieve swelling, and lose weight.

Many techniques have been developed, but before using them, it is imperative to consult with a specialist.

How to remove excess fluid from the body

Likbez

Health

March 22

Both warm-ups and dietary changes can help.

How to understand that there is excess fluid in the body

The most noticeable sign of fluid retention is swelling. The face becomes puffy, the legs around the ankles become heavier and increase in volume, the rings dig into the fingers. But excess water can occur much earlier, even before the appearance of edema.

Harvard Medical School experts suggest focusing on weight. If you didn’t change your lifestyle, and the scales suddenly began to show plus 1–2 kg or more, most likely the reason is fluid retention.

Eldrin Lewis

MD, Cardiovascular Specialist.

Most people gain 3 to 7 kg of excess fluid before they first notice swelling in the legs or abdomen.

Why excess fluid accumulates in the body

Water retention can have various causes. Including natural and relatively harmless. For example:

premenstrual syndrome and pregnancy in women;
habit of eating very salty foods;
prolonged immobility – for example, fluid accumulates in the lower limbs when you have to sit for many hours in an airplane or bus.

Puffiness can also be a side effect of certain medications. In particular, drugs that are prescribed for hypertension and diabetes, hormonal agents based on estrogen, steroids. Even ibuprofen and other NSAIDs sometimes lead to fluid retention.

But edema also makes itself felt in serious conditions, such as:

chronic heart failure;
kidney diseases;
cirrhosis;
chronic venous insufficiency;
problems with the lymphatic system;
prolonged protein deficiency.

Is it necessary to remove excess fluid

For healthy people, fluid retention is more of an aesthetic problem. Swelling caused by hormonal changes during PMS or eating herring at night usually goes away on its own within a maximum of a couple of days. Whether to speed up this process or “and so it will do” is up to you.

But if the swelling becomes regular, permanent, or appears against the background of already existing diseases – for example, cardiovascular disorders, you need to get rid of excess fluid. Otherwise, excess water will become an additional burden on the heart, kidneys, veins and worsen your condition.

When to see a doctor

Mayo Clinic, one of the largest research and medical centers in the world, lists warning signs. If you notice them, try to seek help as soon as possible.

Sudden swelling accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, shallow breathing. This may be a sign of pulmonary edema or anaphylactic shock. With such symptoms, you need to act immediately. Dial 103 or 112.
The skin over the swollen area has stretched to such an extent that it is shiny. Or, after pressing on the swollen area, a dimple remains there for a long time. With such signs, you need to consult a therapist and undergo the examinations prescribed by him.
After sitting for a long time, the leg is swollen and sore, and this condition persists for a long time. This is how deep vein thrombosis can manifest itself. Contact a therapist, phlebologist or vascular surgeon.

It is also worth seeing your doctor if there are no dangerous signs, but fluid retention occurs against the background of some chronic disease. The doctor will conduct an examination, ask you about your well-being and recommend ways to get rid of puffiness.

How to remove excess fluid from the body

These methods are suitable for healthy people. But doctors often recommend them to patients with chronic diseases (be sure to consult a doctor before proceeding!).

1. Warm up

Fluid retention is often associated with circulatory problems. When the blood stagnates in a particular area, the pressure rises and moisture begins to be squeezed out through the walls of the vessels into the intercellular space. This is where she lingers.

To get rid of fluid retention, a light warm-up is sufficient. It will improve blood circulation and help the body remove excess moisture through the kidneys. Ask your therapist which exercises will be most effective and safe for you.

2. Gently massage

Using gentle pressure, stroke the swollen areas towards the heart. Such a massage will help remove excess fluid from the tissues, and then it will enter the bloodstream and be filtered by the kidneys.

3. Lie down with your legs elevated

Excess fluid often accumulates in the tissues of the legs – simply due to gravity, which complicates the blood flow in the veins of the lower extremities.

When you lie down and raise your legs above the level of your heart (for example, resting your ankles on a rolled up thick towel or cushion), universal gravity begins to work for you. The blood drains towards the heart, the pressure on the walls of the vessels decreases, the fluid from the tissues of the lower extremities returns to the bloodstream.

4. Go to a workout

Your task is to move so actively that you sweat. Studies show that on average, people lose from 0.5 to 2 liters of fluid per hour of training. The difference is associated with the individual characteristics of the organism, the degree of load, the ambient temperature and the chosen clothing.

In addition, during exercise, the muscles require more water and it comes to them from the surrounding tissues. So training can at the same time save you from visible puffiness.

5. Wear compression stockings or stockings

This is another way to improve circulation in your legs and get rid of fluid retention.

6. Take an over-the-counter diuretic

These drugs keep the kidneys active and help the body eliminate excess water.

Please note that diuretics have side effects. Therefore, they should be taken only after consulting a therapist.

7. Avoid salty foods

Salty foods make the body retain fluids. This is a physiological process.

The key element of common salt is sodium. In the fluids of the human body, there is always approximately the same amount of it. The concentration of dissolved sodium (and other electrolytes) is called osmolarity. For a person to remain healthy, it must be within certain, rather narrow limits.

Therefore, when a lot of salt enters the body, our body begins to retain water in order to dilute the excess sodium.

To avoid fluid retention, WHO recommends no more than 5 g of salt per day.

8. Eat foods high in potassium

The mineral has the ability to reduce sodium concentration. This will help the body get rid of excess water. How the process takes place, we described in detail.

The American Heart Association lists potassium-rich foods:

leafy greens, such as spinach;
peas;
potatoes;
mushrooms;
bananas;
avocado;
tomatoes and tomato juice;
citrus fruits, eg oranges, and their juice;
plums, apricots, other stone fruits and their juice;
raisins and dates;
milk with a fat content of up to 1%;
low-fat yoghurt;
tuna and halibut.

9. Eat foods rich in magnesium

Tissue fluid retention and accompanying swelling can be signs of magnesium deficiency.

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Read this next

Water retention (fluid retention): Causes, symptoms, and treatments

Capillary damage

Congestive heart failure

The lymphatic system

The kidneys

Pregnancy

Physical inactivity

Obesity

Malnutrition

Infections and allergies

Medications

Hormonal conditions

The brain

The lungs

Herbal remedies

Elevation

Clothing

How to quickly remove excess fluid from the body?

The main causes of edema and fluid retention in the body

How to remove excess fluid from the body – methods

Power normalization

Fasting days

Physical exercise

Relax baths

How to remove excess fluid from the body

How to understand that there is excess fluid in the body

Why excess fluid accumulates in the body

Is it necessary to remove excess fluid

When to see a doctor

How to remove excess fluid from the body

1. Warm up

2. Gently massage

3. Lie down with your legs elevated

4. Go to a workout

5. Wear compression stockings or stockings

6. Take an over-the-counter diuretic

7. Avoid salty foods

8. Eat foods high in potassium

9. Eat foods rich in magnesium

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