Fluid Overload

What is fluid overload?

There are plenty of headlines about the dangers of dehydration. However, it’s also possible for your body to have fluid overload or too much water. 

Fluid overload, known clinically as hypervolemia, causes several uncomfortable symptoms and contributes to high blood pressure and heart problems like congestive heart failure. 

Fluid overload causes symptoms, such as:

• Rapid weight gain
• Edema (swelling) in your legs, arms, or face
• Swollen abdomen
• Cramping and stomach bloating
• Headaches
• Shortness of breath

When left untreated, fluid overload can contribute to problems such as tissue breakdown and delayed wound healing. It also increases your risk of pericarditis (swelling of heart tissues) and heart failure. 

What causes fluid overload?

Kidney problems such as kidney failure and nephrotic syndrome are common causes of fluid overload. Your kidneys filter waste like sodium and extra fluid out of your blood. If they don’t function correctly, you retain sodium and fluid, developing fluid overload. 

Heart failure, cirrhosis, and pregnancy can also contribute to fluid overload.

If you think you have fluid overload, you should make an appointment at Houston Kidney Specialists Center for diagnosis and treatment. 

How is fluid overload diagnosed?

The team at Houston Kidney Specialists begin with a comprehensive exam, checking for weight gain and swelling. They also use blood and tests to evaluate the amount of sodium and other minerals in your system. Elevated sodium levels are a clinical sign of fluid overload.

Identifying the cause of your fluid overload is a critical part of your evaluation. Your doctor might order additional lab tests, CT scans, ultrasounds, or a kidney biopsy to learn more about your condition.  

How do you treat fluid overload?

The team at Houston Kidney Specialists Center provides personalized treatment plans to rid your body of excess fluid and address the underlying cause of your fluid overload. 

They might prescribe diuretics to help your body remove extra fluid. In severe cases, your doctor might recommend dialysis or paracentesis to remove excess water. 

The team also offers treatments to address the underlying kidney problem causing your hypervolemia. This could include lifestyle modifications and medications to support healthy kidney function.

Call Houston Kidney Specialists Center or schedule an appointment online today for expert diagnosis and treatment for fluid overload.