Adjustable Beds as a Treatment for Edema

A Solution for Edema Control

Edema means swelling in the small spaces that surround the body tissues and organs. Edema can occur nearly anywhere in the body. The location of the edema will depend, in part, on the underlying cause. Some of the most common sites are:

    * Lungs (also called pulmonary edema)
    * Abdomen (also called ascites)
    * Extremities such as the lower legs (also called peripheral edema)

Generalized swelling, or massive edema (anasarca), is a common sign in severely ill people. Although slight edema may be difficult to detect, especially in an overweight person, massive edema is very obvious as swelling takes on absurd proportions. Edema can be an indication of a chronic and progressive medical illness.

Generalized swelling, or massive edema (anasarca), is a common sign in severely ill people. Although slight edema may be difficult to detect, especially in an overweight person, massive edema is very obvious as swelling takes on absurd proportions. Edema can be an indication of a chronic and progressive medical illness.

Edema Described As...

Edema may be generally described in one of two ways: Pitting edema -- When you press a finger against a swollen area for 5 seconds and then quickly remove it, an indentation is left that fills slowly. Nonpitting edema -- When you press a finger against a swollen area for 5 seconds and then quickly remove it, no indentation is left in the skin.

One of the main options recommended by medical experts for easing localized swelling and prevent skin breakdown from chronic edema, is the use of a pressure reducing mattress and to keep your limbs elevated above the level of your heart when you lie down. That is what an adjustable bed is specifically built to do. The link between an adjustable bed and edema is justified due to it’s functionality.

Relief Through Adjustable Bed Elevation

Leg, ankle, and foot edema can be improved by elevating the legs above heart level for 30 minutes three or four times per day. Leg elevation alone may be sufficient therapy for patients with mild venous insufficiency, but is usually not adequate for more severe cases. In addition, it may not be practical for those who work to elevate their legs several times per day.

You could try to prop pillows and other soft materials under yourself but with an electric adjustable bed you will be able to effortlessly position your body to attain an optimal comfort and swelling-reducing level. Just pick up your remote control unit and push the buttons! If you or a loved one suffers from edema and are considering the purchase of an adjustable bed, I hope you find this article useful. An old Portuguese saying , roughly translated, says it all "Whomsoever has health, has it all!"

About the author: Emmanuel DeFreitas is the administrator for Adjustable Bed Center providing detailed information on electric, medical, cheap, and used adjustable beds, as well as adjustable airbeds and adjustable bed reviews.

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Patricia Taylor
     Adjustable Bed Advisor  

 Adjustable Beds as a Treatment for Edema