Anasarca is a general swelling of the body that can occur when the body tissues retain too much fluid. The condition is also known as extreme generalized edema.
Definition of anasarca
It is helpful to understand that anasarca is not a disease in and of itself , but rather a symptom or result of a medical condition.
It is different from the typical edema. Almost everyone experiences bloating at some point, which can be due to a variety of causes, such as injury, dehydration, or a minor side effect of medication.
In many cases, swelling or edema can only affect a specific part of the body, such as the feet, hands, or legs. But in the anasarca, the swelling affects the entire body and is considered severe. It is usually so severe that it makes movement difficult.
What are the causes?
When intravenous fluids are given too much, it can increase the risk of anasarca.
The most common causes of anasarca include:
-Excess administration of intravenous fluids: (If the body cannot adapt to the administered fluids, it can lead to severe edema).
-Renal disease:When kidney function is impaired, fluid is not properly removed from the body, which can cause anasarca.
-Cirrhosis:cirrhosis can occur due to liver failure. Liver disease can cause changes in hormones that affect fluid regulation in the body. When the liver doesn’t work as efficiently as it should, it can cause fluid to leak into the tissues.
-Malnutrition:Malnutrition, specifically protein deficiency in the diet, can cause fluid to accumulate in the tissues. In extreme cases, it can lead to anasarca.
-Poor functioning of the heart:When the heart muscle does not work properly, it affects the heart’s ability to pump blood throughout the body. If the heart does not pump efficiently, it can cause fluid build-up in the tissues.
–Allergic reaction:swelling of the body can occur due to an allergic reaction. In severe reactions, anasarca may develop.
The swelling can lead to additional symptoms, including:
-difficulty walking if the legs are swollen
-difficulty raising arms
-incrise of cardiac frecuency
sore joints
difficult breathing
A life-threatening anasarca complication can also occur if fluid builds up in the lungs. Fluid in the lungs is called pulmonary edema. Signs include chest pain, shortness of breath, and cough.
How is anasarca diagnosed?
A doctor can usually make a diagnosis of anasarca after a physical exam; and if the edema is severe, the expert will recognize it instantly. However, determining the underlying cause of anasarca requires further testing.
A blood test will be the first step in making an anasarca diagnosis. Blood is tested to check organ function, including the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys.
Your doctor may also recommend other diagnostic tests, such as an echocardiogram , chest X-ray, and stress test to assess heart and lung function.
