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Idiopathic edema

Not a rare disease Not a rare disease
Other Names:
Idiopathic cyclic edema; Idiopathic orthostatic edema; Fluid retention syndrome; Idiopathic cyclic edema; Idiopathic orthostatic edema; Fluid retention syndrome; Cyclical edema See More
Idiopathic edema is a common cause of fluid retention and swelling (edema) in women.[1] "Idiopathic" means that the cause of this condition is unknown. Idiopathic edema occurs in the absence of heart, kidney, or liver disease. It is often associated with diabetes, obesity, and emotional problems. The edema may develop periodically or it may persist over time. Swelling of the face, hands, and legs can develop rapidly, and affected individuals typically experience significant changes in their weight over the course of a day. Treatment often includes a low sodium and carbohydrate diet as well as cessation of diuretic therapy (if warranted).[1][2]
Last updated: 6/16/2016
Most individuals with idiopathic edema experience a decrease in swelling and fluid retention with the introduction of a low sodium, low carbohydrate diet. For individuals already taking diuretics, a brief discontinuation may result in symptom improvement as well. Individuals who do not respond to initial treatment may be difficult to treat; however, other therapies such as use of hypertension medications (ACE inhibitors) have shown success in some cases.[2]
Last updated: 6/16/2016

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  1. Ely JW, Osheroff JA, Chambliss ML, Ebell MH. J Am Board Fam Med. 2006; 19:148-160. http://www.jabfm.org/cgi/content/full/19/2/148. Accessed 12/9/2008.
  2. Richard H. Stens. Idiopathic Edema. UpToDate. August 03, 2015; http://www.uptodate.com/contents/idiopathic-edema.