Bloating, also known as water retention, is an unusual buildup of fluid in the body that can result in mild to severe swelling. This can happen on the face, legs, ankles, and feet, among other parts of the body.
The skin begins to swell and bloat as a result of the body’s tissues responding to this abnormal fluid buildup. As a result, a person’s appearance or youthfulness may deteriorate, which can cause observable aging.
Both men and women can experience bloating or water retention. Depending on the patient’s medical history, skin condition, age, and skin type, the causes may change. The cause of one’s bloated appearance can be identified with the help of a qualified specialist. You can learn everything there is to know about bloating and water retention in this article.
What sort of health problems will you experience following bloating and water retention?
You are mostly made of water. Your blood, muscles, organs, and even bones contain it. You require it, but occasionally your body stores too much of it. Puffy eyes and swelling are the results of this water retention. There are many different things that can cause it. If you struggle with water retention and bloating. You’ll experience some issues with various body parts.
- The brain
Fluid retention in the brain, also known as hydrocephalus, can manifest as symptoms such as nausea, headaches, blurred vision, and balance issues. This may endanger your life.
- The lungs.
Pulmonary edema, or an accumulation of fluid in the lungs, is a serious sign that something is wrong with the heart or respiratory system. Breathing problems, a cough, chest pain, and weakness are some of the symptoms as it can impair the lungs’ capacity to deliver oxygen to the body.
- An allergic response.
In those who are susceptible, the body often swells in response to certain allergens, like an insect bite. Anaphylaxis, a severe reaction, is occasionally present and necessitates immediate medical attention. This swelling is transient rather than persistent.
- Heart failure
The body makes various adjustments to compensate if the heart does not pump efficiently. It begins to retain fluid and pump out more blood. This causes the veins to become congested, the liver to enlarge, and fluid to build up in body cavities like the abdominal cavity (ascites) and subcutaneous tissues, resulting in leg swelling.
- Medications.
Oral contraceptives, corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (nsaids), calcium-channel blockers, and some diabetes medications are just a few of the drugs that could make you retain more water.
- Kidney illness.
People with chronic kidney disease frequently experience fluid retention because the kidneys are in charge of maintaining fluid levels.
- The lymphatic system
Through the body, lymph is transported by the lymphatic system. White blood cells are found in the fluid called lymph. It supports the immune system in protecting the body from infection. The lymphatic system assists the body in maintaining fluid balance by delivering and reabsorbing lymphatic fluid.
Fluid may begin to accumulate around the tissues if the lymphatic system is unable to function properly due to an issue. The abdomen, ankles, legs, and feet are just a few of the body parts that may swell as a result of this.
Bloating and water retention signs
You might feel heavier than usual, less nimble, and less active as a result of water retention. A few observable symptoms can also be brought on by holding onto extra water.
Bloating and water retention symptoms can include:
- Bloating, especially in the abdominal area
- Swollen legs, feet, and ankles
- Puffiness of the abdomen, face, and hips
- Stiff joints
- Weight fluctuations
How to prevent yourself from getting bloating water retention?
- Eat less salt
Your body’s sodium binds to water and aids in regulating the fluid balance inside and outside of your cells.
Your body may retain water if you frequently consume salty foods, such as many processed foods. In fact, the majority of western diets get the majority of their sodium from these foods.
The most popular piece of advice for reducing water retention is to consume less sodium. The research on this, though, is conflicting. Fluid retention increases with an increase in sodium intake. The regulation of fluid balance is influenced by a number of other variables, though, and each individual’s response to salt’s effects on water retention will be different.
- Get vitamin b6
Water-soluble vitamin b6 is essential for the production of red blood cells, protein metabolism, brain health, and immune function. Additionally, it controls fluid balance and might lessen water retention. Noting that when used alone or in combination with other supplements like calcium, this vitamin may lessen pms symptoms like bloating.
- Up your water intake.
While it may seem counterintuitive, some people think that drinking more water will help them retain less of it.
- Examine cornsilk.
This herb is traditionally used in some regions of the world to treat water retention, according to an older review.
- Eat nettle
Another traditional remedy to lessen water retention and support fluid balance is this leafy green.
- Intake apples
Apples are a good option for fitness-conscious professionals looking to lose weight quickly because they are high in fiber. But in addition to this, this fruit also contains fructose and sorbitol, which some people find difficult to digest and cause a bloated sensation in the body.
Apples are a great snack because they are nutrient-dense and provide about 10% of your daily vitamin c needs. We advise you to time your intake and take them in moderation, keeping them apart from meals.
- Don’t drink sodas
Gas in carbonated beverages can accumulate in the stomach. The same carbon dioxide that makes soda and other fizzy drinks fizzy can also make the stomach bubble and bloat. By drinking water, you can treat constipation and both of these issues.
- Become more active each day.
Exercise may help you have more frequent bowel movements by helping your body move stool and gas out of the colon. Exercise can aid in reducing water retention by causing the body to sweat out extra sodium.
- Use essential oils
In 116 patients with mild-to-moderate ibs, the efficacy of supplements combining fennel and curcumin essential oil was examined. After 30 days, people reported that their ibs symptoms, such as bloating and abdominal pain, had improved.
Without first consulting a doctor, you shouldn’t consume essential oils. This is due to the lack of dosage regulations and the possibility that some formulations may be toxic or interfere with medications.
- Take exercise
Exercise can promote regular bowel movements, which can help the body release extra gas and stool. Getting the bowels to move is crucial for anyone who is experiencing constipation.
- Try yoga poses
A few yoga positions can put the muscles in the abdomen in a position that helps the gi tract release extra gas. It may lessen bloating.
Squats, the child’s pose, and the happy baby pose can all help people quickly release a buildup of gas.
Conclusion
Consult your doctor if your monthly water retention continues to bother you. He or she might advise you to keep a symptom journal for a while. This can support the idea that, as opposed to other potential causes, your symptoms are caused by your menstrual cycle. The ideal course of treatment for you can also be decided by your doctor.
