Edema

What Is Weeping Edema & How Do You Treat It?

Weeping edema is characterized by swelling that leads to fluid leaking from the legs or other parts of the body. Continuously weeping skin is a serious concern and, if left untreated, may cause severe damage to the skin and more.   

What is weeping edema?  

Weeping edema is a kind of edema, a condition that causes swelling resulting from fluid buildup in the body when the blood vessels, known as capillaries, start leaking.   

This fluid is trapped in the body tissues and leaks through the skin. This fluid is known as lymphatic fluid, and the condition is known as lymphedema. This leaking fluid comprises white blood cells, fats, and proteins. 

Although edema can happen in any part of the body, it predominantly affects the arms, face, legs, and feet.  

Is fluid leaking from the legs a serious condition?  

The short answer is yes. Fluid leaking from the legs is a serious condition and needs immediate attention. The fluid weeping from the legs can leak through the skin, causing blisters and weeping wounds.   

Weeping edema can also indicate other underlying conditions, such as hypoproteinemia or cardiac issues. It is always advised to consult your doctor and undergo proper treatment for weeping edema.   

What causes weeping edema?  

As mentioned earlier, an underlying condition may be the culprit behind the weeping legs or any other body part. Chronic conditions like diabetes can also cause swelling in the legs and feet. Other causes of weeping edema may be as follows -   

• Chronic venous insufficiency   
• Acute kidney failure  
• Conditions that affect the lymphatic system  
• Blood clots  
• Chronic progressive untreated swelling  
• Liver failure  
• Side effects of a medication  

What are the symptoms of edema?  

According to Mayo Clinic, symptoms of edema include:  

• Stretched or shiny skin  
• Swollen or puffed skin tissues in legs, arms, or other body parts  
• Pitting skin after being pressed for a few seconds  
• Bloated and thickened skin  
• Inflammation or tightness in the swollen area  
• A feeling of heaviness in the body parts  

How do you treat weeping edema in the legs?  

To reiterate, weeping leg edema is a serious issue requiring immediate medical care. Your doctor might diagnose the edema or perform some tests to rule out other conditions behind the weeping wounds.   

Although in many cases, edemas go away on their own with some rest and exercise. However, the doctor might prescribe diuretic medications (also known as water pills) to help the body eliminate excess fluid in more serious cases.  

Here is what you can do to treat weeping edema in legs -   

1. Use compression therapy  

Once your doctor approves, use a compression sleeve or stockings to manage the symptoms. Compression therapy prevents swelling and promotes blood circulation.   

Ensure the right amount of compression to avoid any further complications. A compression garment too tight can cause pain and limit blood circulation, whereas a loose one will not do what it should. Your doctor will guide you in identifying the right amount of compression suitable for your condition.  

2. Use massage and elevation therapy.  

Light massages on different parts of the body help reduce stress and relieve weeping edema. Massage the feet with firm strokes and some pressure towards the heart. It helps relax the inflamed tissues and quell the swelling.  

Elevation therapy can also help treat weeping edema. Elevate the legs above heart level for 30 minutes three to four times daily to reduce or eliminate edema in people with mild venous disease.  

3. Make some dietary changes.  

Let's address the elephant in the room!  

High sodium intake can lead to weeping edema in the legs and other body parts. According to the American Heart Association, processed and restaurant food constitutes more than 70% of our sodium intake.  

To limit fluid retention, reduce salt intake, keep your distance from processed foods, and eat fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.   

Some fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, grapes, cucumber, onions, and bell peppers have a mild diuretic effect, I.e., they help the body get rid of sodium and excess water. Eating these helps with weeping edema.  

4. Keep the swollen area clean and dry.  

Fluid weeping from legs via blisters or wounds for a long time can cause skin breakdown. The fluid can seep into the surrounding skin. If the area stays wet all the time, it can irritate the skin and cause eczema. Make sure wound site is clean and dry to prevent infections.

You can use a wound dressing, such as an absorbent or hydrogel dressing, to absorb the leaking fluid. Make sure you change the bandages often, clean the area, and use a barrier cream to protect it from infections.  

5. Move a little (often)  

If your doctor approves, perform some gentle exercises. Being active makes the swelling go down. It also helps the body drain fluid pooling in the legs. Remember, pushing yourself too hard can worsen the situation.   

Exercise at your own pace and give your body the rest it deserves. Stop exercising if it aggravates the pain or feels uncomfortable.  

6. Stay hydrated    

This may seem counterintuitive, but drinking plenty of water helps treat fluid buildup. If you deprive yourself of enough water, the body will retain fluids to avoid dehydration. Therefore, drinking water is necessary to reduce fluid retention and eliminate the chances of fluid pooling in the legs.  

What products can help treat weeping edema?  

Several products can help with edema treatment. Some of them are listed below -   

1. Compression garments  

If your doctor approves, consider investing in good quality compression garments such as compression stockings, vests, and arm sleeves. These put pressure on swollen areas, reducing swelling, preventing it from returning, and protecting the skin from breaking down.  

2. Lotion  

People with edema are prone to skin infections such as eczema. Find moisturizers and hydrating creams to keep the skin healthy and vibrant.  

3. Adult wipes  

Wet wipes help keep the skin clean without having to wet the area. These prevent bacterial growth on or around the weeping wound.   

Where can I buy products that can help with weeping edema in legs?  

HPFY has been your health and wellness partner since 2002. We offer a wide range of wound care and lymphedema supplies that can help reduce the swelling and relieve pain caused due to weeping edema in the legs. Explore our catalog today and find all that you need to manage your symptoms.

Need more information about weeping edema and its treatment?  

Read more about edema at -   

• Edema: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment   
• Peripheral Edema  
• Edema  

 

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