Uncommon Infant and Newborn Problems—Edema

Also called: Dropsy

Edema means swelling caused by fluid in your body’s tissues. It usually occurs in the feet, ankles and legs, but it can involve your entire body.

Causes of edema include

Eating too much salt
Sunburn
Heart failure
Kidney disease
Liver problems from cirrhosis
Pregnancy
Problems with lymph nodes, especially after mastectomy
Some medicines
Standing or walking a lot when the weather is warm

To keep swelling down, your health care provider may recommend keeping your legs raised when sitting, wearing support stockings, limiting how much salt you eat, or taking a medicine called a diuretic – also called a water pill.

Abdominal tap (Medical Encyclopedia)
Angioedema (Medical Encyclopedia)
Foot, leg, and ankle swelling (Medical Encyclopedia)
Pulmonary edema (Medical Encyclopedia)
Swelling (Medical Encyclopedia)

It can be scary when your baby is sick, especially when it is not an everyday problem like a cold or a fever. You may not know whether the problem is serious or how to treat it. If you have concerns about your baby’s health, call your health care provider right away.

Learning information about your baby’s condition can help ease your worry. Do not be afraid to ask questions about your baby’s care. By working together with your health care provider, you make sure that your baby gets the best care possible.