15 Types of Edema Explained

Edema refers to the swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues. It can occur in various parts of the body and is often categorized based on its location or underlying cause. Here are the main types of edema:

1. Peripheral Edema

Location: Typically affects the legs, feet, ankles, and hands.
Causes: Often due to conditions like heart failure, kidney disease, venous insufficiency, or prolonged standing/sitting.

2. Pulmonary Edema

Location: Fluid accumulation in the lungs.
Causes: Usually caused by heart failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), or severe infections.

3. Cerebral Edema

Location: Swelling in the brain.
Causes: Can result from traumatic brain injury, stroke, infections, or high altitude sickness.

4. Macular Edema

Location: Swelling in the macula, part of the retina in the eye.
Causes: Often associated with diabetes (diabetic macular edema) or other eye conditions.

5. Lymphedema

Location: Typically affects the arms or legs due to lymphatic system blockage.
Causes: Can occur after lymph node removal (e.g., during cancer treatment) or due to congenital conditions.

6. Pedal Edema

Location: Swelling in the feet and lower legs.
Causes: Common in pregnancy, heart failure, or kidney disease.

7. Pitting Edema

Description: When pressure is applied to the swollen area, it leaves a dent or “pit.”
Causes: Often seen in conditions like heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease.

8. Non-Pitting Edema

Description: Swelling that does not leave a dent when pressed.
Causes: Associated with lymphedema, thyroid disorders, or lipedema.

9. Generalized Edema (Anasarca)

Location: Widespread swelling throughout the body.
Causes: Often due to severe conditions like heart failure, kidney failure, or liver cirrhosis.

10. Localized Edema

Location: Swelling confined to a specific area.
Causes: Can result from injury, infection, or allergic reactions.

11. Hepatic Edema

Location: Often seen in the abdomen (ascites) and legs.
Causes: Caused by liver cirrhosis or other liver diseases.

12. Renal Edema

Location: Commonly affects the face, hands, and feet.
Causes: Associated with kidney diseases like nephrotic syndrome or acute kidney injury.

13. Idiopathic Edema

Description: Swelling with no clear underlying cause.
Causes: Often seen in women and may be related to hormonal fluctuations.

14. High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)

Location: Fluid accumulation in the lungs at high altitudes.
Causes: Caused by rapid ascent to high altitudes without proper acclimatization.

15. Angioedema

Location: Swelling beneath the skin, often around the eyes and lips.
Causes: Can be allergic, hereditary, or drug-induced.

Each type of edema has distinct causes and may require specific treatments. If you experience persistent or severe swelling, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.