Swollen body parts may be uncomfortable but with older adults, it can be a sign of edema. This serious condition can occur in any part of your body but usually results in fluid leaking from legs in elderly individuals.Aug 25, 2020

• Edema occurs when fluid leaks from the tiny blood vessels in your body. Weeping legs in elderly, pregnant women, and other people has a number of interesting causes. This section will examine the different weeping edema causes that may be mild, more severe, or occur as a symptom of medications.

Weeping edema can happen to anyone, but is particularly common in elderly and pregnant women. Fluid leaking from legs in elderly patients especially can be a sign of a more serious underlying health problem, including kidney damage, cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, and weakness or damage to veins in the legs.

What causes fluid leaking from legs?

A blood clot in the deep veins of your leg can cause leg edema . A tumor blocking the flow of blood or another fluid called lymph can cause edema . Critical illness. Burns, life-threatening infections, or other critical illnesses can cause a reaction that allows fluid to leak into tissues almost everywhere.

What to do when legs are weeping?

First, you should clean the area where the fluid is leaking to reduce risk of infection. Then, apply a moisturizing lotion to help heal the skin and protect it from further breakdown. Dress the wound with sterile, absorbent, non-sticky bandages, and then wrap your limb with short-stretch compression bandages.

Are Weeping legs a sign of heart failure?

Right side failure causes fluid to back up in the veins and capillaries in your body. This backup can cause pressure on the capillaries and fluid seeps out into the tissue causing swelling and even “ weeping ” of tissue, especially in the legs and feet. You can experience both types of heart failure at the same time.

Is edema in the legs life threatening?

Some edema can be expected, such as swollen ankles when you’re pregnant or a traumatic ankle sprain; but edema can be caused by life – threatening conditions, such as heart disease or kidney failure.

Can weeping legs be cured?

When treating excessive lower extremity drainage due to edema , complete decongestive therapy can go a long way to resolve a “ weepy leg .” The management of excessive lower extremity drainage is often difficult.

What are some home remedies for weeping legs?

Lifestyle and home remedies Movement. Moving and using the muscles in the part of your body affected by edema , especially your legs , may help pump the excess fluid back toward your heart. Elevation. Massage. Compression. Protection. Reduce salt intake.

Is Weeping edema serious?

Extreme swelling , often in the feet, ankles and legs, can lead to skin ulcers (wounds), weeping edema and dangerous skin infections like cellulitis. Family caregivers who suspect edema should address the concern immediately with a physician.

Will drinking more water help with edema?

1. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day. Though it might seem counterintuitive, getting enough fluids actually helps reduce swelling . When your body isn’t hydrated enough, it holds onto the fluid it does have.

Should I cover a weeping wound?

Q: Is it better to bandage a cut or sore , or air it out? A: Airing out most wounds isn’t beneficial because wounds need moisture to heal. Leaving a wound uncovered may dry out new surface cells, which can increase pain or slow the healing process.

What are the 4 signs your heart is quietly failing?

Heart failure signs and symptoms may include: Shortness of breath ( dyspnea ) when you exert yourself or when you lie down. Fatigue and weakness . Swelling ( edema ) in your legs, ankles and feet. Rapid or irregular heartbeat. Reduced ability to exercise. Persistent cough or wheezing with white or pink blood-tinged phlegm.

How do you treat weeping legs?

6 tips for managing leaky legs Dressings don’t heal wounds. Protect surrounding skin. Skin must be well hydrated (not wet) Compression is king when managing lymphorrhoea. Microdacyn or similar anti-microbial products helps to limit secondary fungal burden. Aggravators and irritators.

Why is my leg leaking clear fluid?

As lymphovenous disease progresses, especially if it is not well managed, legs can become grossly oedematous; swelling causes the skin to stretch and small blisters appear. Fluid then leaks out and has nowhere to go because both drainage systems (circulatory and lymphatic) are too congested (Elwell and Craven, 2015).

What happens if edema is left untreated?

Edema left untreated can cause skin stretching to a point of pruritus and discomfort accompanied by painful swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking. Swollen areas are at increased risk of skin ulcers and infection.

When should you go to the hospital for swollen feet and legs?

Seek emergency medical care if you have leg swelling and any of the following signs or symptoms, which can indicate a blood clot in your lungs or a serious heart condition: Chest pain. Difficulty breathing. Shortness of breath with exertion or lying flat in bed.

What does severe edema look like?

Signs of edema include: Swelling or puffiness of the tissue directly under your skin, especially in your legs or arms. Stretched or shiny skin. Skin that retains a dimple (pits), after being pressed for several seconds.