Fluid Retention and Heart Health: What’s the Connection?

Fluid retention, also known as edema, can be a sign of an underlying health issue and is closely related to heart function. During American Heart Month, it's important to raise awareness about how fluid retention can be linked to heart health and what individuals can do to manage it.

Jennifer Eakin, DO, Bayhealth Heart & Vascular, Eden Hill, offers important information about how fluid retention relates to the heart.

Heart failure and edema

One of the most common causes of fluid retention is heart failure, particularly congestive heart failure (CHF), where the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently. This leads to fluid buildup in the body, especially in the lower extremities, abdomen and lungs. When the heart’s pumping ability is weakened, blood can back up in the veins, leading to fluid leakage into surrounding tissues. This results in swelling (edema) in parts of the body like the legs, feet and abdomen.

Kidney function and fluid balance

The kidneys play a major role in regulating fluid balance. When the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, the kidneys may not receive enough blood, which can impair their ability to remove excess fluid from the body. This causes fluid retention.

High blood pressure

Hypertension (high blood pressure) can damage blood vessels, including those leading to the kidneys, and worsen fluid retention. In people with high blood pressure, the heart has to work harder to pump blood, which can result in fluid buildup.

Other heart-related causes

Valvular heart disease (problems with heart valves) can cause blood to pool in the body, contributing to fluid retention. Pericardial disease (fluid accumulation around the heart) can also lead to swelling in the legs, abdomen or around the lungs.

Symptoms of fluid retention linked to heart disease

• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
•  Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Weight gain over a short period of time due to fluid accumulation
• Abdominal swelling (ascites)
• Feeling bloated or full
• Coughing or wheezing, especially when lying down

How to manage fluid retention

Medications:

• Diuretics: These are commonly prescribed to help remove excess fluid from the body by increasing urination. However, they must be carefully monitored, especially in people with heart disease.
• ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers: These may be prescribed to improve heart function and reduce symptoms of heart failure.

Lifestyle Modifications:

• Reduce sodium intake: Excess salt can lead to fluid retention. A low-sodium diet is important for those with heart conditions.
• Monitor weight: Rapid weight gain can indicate worsening fluid retention.
• Elevate legs: Elevating the legs can help prevent fluid from accumulating in the lower extremities.
• Compression stockings: These can help reduce swelling in the legs.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve circulation and help prevent fluid buildup.

Fluid restriction:
In some cases, people with severe fluid retention may need to limit their fluid intake.

When to seek medical attention:

If you experience unexplained swelling, sudden weight gain, shortness of breath or chest pain, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of heart failure or other heart conditions.

Fluid retention can be a key warning sign of heart problems. During American Heart Month, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of maintaining heart health, managing risk factors like high blood pressure and understanding the signs of heart disease. If fluid retention is noticed, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to address any underlying heart conditions.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Eakin, call 302-734-1414.