When to Seek Medical Attention
While occasional water retention is usually not a cause for concern, persistent or severe edema may indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical intervention. Seek medical attention if you experience:
Persistent swelling that doesn’t improve with lifestyle changes
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, which could be a sign of heart or lung issues
Severe or sudden swelling in only one leg, which could indicate a blood clot
In these cases, a healthcare provider may recommend treatments such as diuretics (water pills) to help the body eliminate excess fluids, or further testing to identify the underlying cause.
