Diagnosis - Oedema

Oedema is the swelling of soft tissues as a result of excess water accumulation. It may be a sign of heart failure due partly to the increase in pressure in the veins caused by the reduced pumping ability of the heart. Heart failure also affects the kidneys' ability to dispose of sodium and water and the retained water exacerbates the oedema.

Oedema is often more prominent in the lower legs and feet towards the end of the day as a result of pooling of fluid from the upright position. It can happen in other parts of the body, too. Sometimes fluid collects in the lungs and interferes with breathing, causing shortness of breath, especially when a person is lying down.