Some individuals are affected by exercise-induced edema which typically affects the hands or legs, but can also affect the ankles, feet and face. Edema develops once a large amount of fluid builds-up in the circulatory system. This is quite common among individuals above 60 years old, but anyone can develop the condition.
It is important to note that edema is not an illness, though long-standing edema can be an indication of other diseases such as kidney disease, heart failure or cirrhosis.
What are the possible causes of exercise-induced edema?
The potential causes of edema include low or high blood pressure, allergies, pregnancy, exposure to high altitudes or heat, exercise and hormonal changes during menstruation. The exact cause for exercise-induced edema is still vague, but it could be due to how the blood vessels respond while working out.
Since the flow of blood to the heart and the lungs increases while exercising, the diminished supply of blood to the legs and hands can lead to edema.
Those who sweat profusely might end up with edema or similar symptoms while exercising. This manifests as the blood vessels are pushed toward the skin surface. Individuals who engage in endurance sports can end up with low sodium levels that can also lead to exercise-induced edema since they tend to drink more water after a rigorous routine. This dilutes the sodium in the body which is called hyponatremia. Once followed by confusion and vomiting, immediate medical care is required.
Signs and symptoms
The evident engorgement in the legs or hands while exercising is the most prevalent indication of exercise-induced edema. Other signs might include muscle cramps, shortness of breath and changes in the mental status.
In such circumstances, a doctor should be consulted right away. The indications of exercise-induced edema can be relieved by allowing the individual to rest after a workout.
Preventive measures
The ideal way to prevent the condition is to instruct the individual to take a 5-minute break when switching between exercise routines. During this period, the individual should move the legs and arms in half-circle movements to increase the flow of blood. Take note that this will help reduce the edema effectively.
Considerations to bear in mind
A doctor should be consulted before starting any exercise program. It is recommended to start at a slow manner and steadily build up to longer workouts. If the individual experiences pain or swelling while exercising, a doctor should be consulted to pinpoint the causes or required treatment. When it comes to exercise-induced edema, the solution is to take frequent breaks while exercising.