Skip to main content

The Link Between Edema and Nephrology

The Link Between Edema and Nephrology

Most of us have had at least some minor swelling during our lives. An infected tooth, a bug bite, or a bruise can all be accompanied by a little swelling, usually as a result of inflammation or  minor fluid leakage.

But edema is different. Edema is a type of swelling that happens when fluid builds up in one or more areas of the body, and usually, it’s due to a problem with the way the body circulates or eliminates fluids.

Edema is often a sign of a more complex underlying problem. Congestive heart failure, liver disease, and chronic venous disease can all cause edema, and so can a problem with your kidneys.

As a leading nephrology practice in Houston and Cypress, Texas, Houston Kidney Specialists Center uses advanced techniques to determine the underlying cause of edema, helping patients get the care they need to feel better and help prevent serious complications. In this post, our team offers a brief overview of the link between your kidneys and edema.

Your kidneys and edema

Your kidneys act as your body’s filters, removing wastes and excess fluids through your urine. When your kidneys are damaged or injured by disease, the filtering process breaks down and fluids back up, becoming trapped in your tissues and around your organs.

Edema can occur anywhere in your body, but when it’s caused by a kidney problem, it usually happens in your extremities — your ankles, feet, and lower legs. This type of edema is called peripheral edema, and it can also happen in your arms, hands, and even your face.

Unlike the “hard” swelling that may follow a bee sting or a bruise, edema tends to feel “softer” when you press on the swollen area. In severe cases, your skin may stay depressed after you touch it. This type of edema is called pitted edema.

As your skin swells, the fluid that builds up puts pressure on your skin, causing it to appear shiny or stretched. Sometimes, sores form if you rub or scratch your skin. Without proper care, these sores can quickly become infected and lead to serious complications.

Treating edema

Nephrology is the medical specialty that focuses on your kidneys and how well they function. Doctors who specialize in nephrology have an extensive understanding of kidney functions and diseases. They also have an in-depth knowledge of techniques that can be used to diagnose and manage kidney problems, such as edema.

Before we prescribe treatment, we review your medical history and perform lab tests, such as urinalysis and blood tests, to look for signs of kidney dysfunction. If we determine your kidneys are behind your edema symptoms, we move forward with additional testing to identify the most appropriate treatment.

Treatment often begins with medications — called diuretics — to help rid your body of the excess fluid. Then, we focus your therapy on the specific cause, such as kidney disease or high blood pressure. Throughout your therapy, you’ll have regular office visits and testing to make sure your treatment remains effective.

Learn what’s causing your edema

Edema can be a sign of a serious problem with your kidneys or another aspect of your health, and it should never be ignored. With prompt medical treatment, we can help relieve your swelling and manage the underlying condition that’s causing it.


To find out what’s causing your edema, call 281-429-8780 or request an appointment online with Houston Kidney Specialists Center today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

6 Reasons That May Be Causing Protein in Your Urine

6 Reasons That May Be Causing Protein in Your Urine

Your urine contains lots of components, but excess protein shouldn’t be one of them. In fact, high levels of protein can be a sign of serious medical issues. Here are six reasons why protein can show up in urine and what we can do to help.
How Various Foods Affect Your Kidneys

How Various Foods Affect Your Kidneys

As filters for your blood, your kidneys can be directly affected by the foods you eat. Here’s how to adjust your diet to help your kidneys stay healthy and prevent complications that could damage these organs.
What Is Hemodialysis and When Would I Need It?

What Is Hemodialysis and When Would I Need It?

Hemodialysis plays a critical role in managing serious kidney problems, yet many people don’t know what it is or how it works. Here, learn the basics about hemodialysis and when our team prescribes it.
Do You Have These Symptoms of Kidney Disease?

Do You Have These Symptoms of Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease affects millions of Americans, and it can sometimes cause serious and even life-threatening complications. Knowing what symptoms to look for can help you get treatment as early as possible, before complications occur.
7 Telltale Signs of Vasculitis

7 Telltale Signs of Vasculitis

Vasculitis is a serious medical problem that can affect the veins in any part of your body — or your entire body. In this post, learn what symptoms to look for, so you can seek medical care as soon as possible.
How to Protect Your Kidneys With Your Diet

How to Protect Your Kidneys With Your Diet

Like any organ, your kidneys depend on the right nutrients to perform their best. Making these few simple changes to your diet can help protect your kidneys and prevent serious complications, such as kidney failure.