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Fluid Retention

Meaning

Fluid retention, clinically termed edema, is the abnormal accumulation of excess fluid in the circulatory system or within the interstitial spaces between cells. This condition often presents as swelling, particularly in the extremities, and is a sign of underlying physiological imbalance. Hormonal fluctuations, notably those involving aldosterone, antidiuretic hormone (ADH), and estrogen, are frequent contributors to clinically significant fluid shifts. Accurate diagnosis requires assessing the balance of hydrostatic and oncotic pressures across capillary walls.