Edema Treatment in Pasadena, CA
Edema is a medical condition characterized by swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues. It can affect various areas, including the legs, ankles, feet, hands, and even the abdomen. While mild cases may resolve on their own, persistent or severe edema often indicates an underlying health concern, such as heart, kidney, or liver problems. Left untreated, edema can cause discomfort, limit mobility, and contribute to more serious health complications.
At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, edema treatment is personalized to address the swelling and its root cause. Under the guidance of family medicine physician Kimberley Shine, MD, patients receive comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based care that considers the whole person. With an emphasis on integrative and functional medicine, Shine Health and Wellness helps patients manage their symptoms, restore balance, and improve overall quality of life.
Causes and Symptoms of Edema
Edema can arise from a wide range of factors, including:
- Heart Conditions: Congestive heart failure and other cardiovascular problems can lead to fluid buildup.
- Kidney Disorders: Impaired kidney function may affect the body’s ability to eliminate excess fluids.
- Liver Disease: Conditions such as cirrhosis can contribute to swelling in the abdomen and legs.
- Venous Insufficiency: Poor circulation can lead to the pooling of blood and fluid in the lower extremities.
- Medications: Certain blood pressure drugs, steroids, or pain relievers may contribute to fluid retention.
- Lifestyle Factors: Standing or sitting for long periods, poor diet, or lack of physical activity can also increase risk.
Common symptoms include visible swelling, skin that feels tight or stretched, puffiness, and decreased flexibility in the affected area. Identifying the cause is essential for effective treatment.
How Edema Is Diagnosed
At Shine Health and Wellness, diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history, physical exam, and targeted testing. This may include:
- Blood Tests: To check kidney, liver, and heart function.
- Urine Tests: To assess how well the kidneys are filtering waste and fluids.
- Imaging Studies: Ultrasounds or X-rays may be used to evaluate circulation and organ health.
- Cardiac Evaluation: If heart disease is suspected, further cardiovascular testing may be recommended.
By combining these tools, Dr. Shine and her team can identify the underlying causes and design treatment strategies tailored to each patient.
Treatment Options for Edema
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the swelling. At Shine Health and Wellness, care plans may include:
- Medication Adjustments: Prescribing diuretics or reviewing current medications that may contribute to fluid retention.
- Nutritional Guidance: Reducing salt intake, improving hydration, and adopting a balanced diet to support circulation and organ function.
- Lifestyle Recommendations: Encouraging regular movement, leg elevation, and compression garments to reduce swelling.
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Support: Addressing conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or metabolic syndrome that may be linked to edema.
- Integrative Therapies: Functional medicine approaches to reduce inflammation, improve lymphatic drainage, and restore overall balance.
The goal is not only to reduce swelling but also to prevent recurrence by managing the root causes.
Preventing Complications from Edema
While occasional swelling may not be cause for concern, chronic edema can lead to skin infections, reduced circulation, and long-term tissue damage if left untreated. By addressing edema early and holistically, Shine Health and Wellness helps patients reduce their risk of complications, enhance mobility, and experience a higher quality of life.
Why Choose Shine Health and Wellness?
Kimberley Shine, MD, has more than a decade of experience in family medicine and has built Shine Health and Wellness around integrative and functional care. She understands that patients want more than quick fixes. They want answers, support, and lasting solutions. By focusing on the root causes of edema, Dr. Shine and her team, which includes experienced nurses, a lifestyle coach, and a licensed acupuncturist, create treatment plans that empower patients to take control of their health.
Find Relief from Edema Today
If you are experiencing swelling in your legs, ankles, or other areas, professional medical care can make a significant difference.
At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, Kimberley Shine, MD, and her team are dedicated to helping you identify the cause of your edema and providing effective treatment strategies. Call 626-317-0207 today to schedule a consultation.