Fluid retention (or oedema) is the excessive accumulation of water in the space between cells and/or in the lymphatic system. It presents with swelling, increased circumference, a feeling of heaviness and, at times, tightness or mild pain in the affected area. It may be temporary (seasonal changes, heat, long journeys) or persistent.
Fluid retention has a multifactorial origin. The most common triggers are:• Sedentary lifestyle or spending many hours sitting/standing: hinders venous return and lymphatic drainage.
✔ Excess sodium in the diet, high intake of ultra-processed foods and alcohol: promote water retention.
✔ Hormonal changes (menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause), contraceptives or hormonal treatments.
✔ Circulatory problems: chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins or weak venous return.
✔ Warm climate and high temperatures: dilate blood vessels and facilitate oedema.
✔ Medications (certain anti-inflammatories, corticosteroids, antihypertensives, etc.).
✔ Chronic stress and lack of sleep: alter hormonal regulation of water and sodium.
✔ Prolonged travel (plane/car): immobility plus pressure changes encourage swelling, especially in legs and ankles.
It is important to note that oedema may also be associated—though less frequently in aesthetics—with medical conditions (renal, hepatic, thyroid or cardiac). If the swelling is sudden, painful, asymmetrical, or accompanied by shortness of breath, consult your doctor.
• Visible swelling (ankles, calves, hands, abdomen).
• Heaviness, cramps or stiffness at the end of the day.
• “Fovea” or Godet’s sign: when pressing the skin for a few seconds, a pit remains that takes time to disappear (typical in oedema).
• Worse with heat and immobility, better with leg elevation or movement.
✔ Move every 60–90 minutes, walk, and do strength training 2–3 days/week (activates the muscle pump).
✔ Adequate hydration (water; limit alcohol and sugary soft drinks).
✔ Reduce sodium and ultra-processed foods; prioritise potassium and magnesium (fruit/vegetables, pulses, nuts).
✔ Elevate the legs at rest and use compression garments if indicated.
✔ Cool/contrast showers on the legs to activate venous return.
At Clínica Áureo, we understand how uncomfortable fluid retention can be and we offer specialised draining treatments to relieve these symptoms and improve overall wellbeing. Below are our main options:
Pressotherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses pneumatic boots to apply controlled pressure to the limbs, stimulating lymphatic and blood circulation. It is ideal for those who suffer from swelling, fluid retention or who want to improve the feeling of lightness in the legs.
During the session, the boots inflate and deflate rhythmically, exerting gentle yet effective pressure that helps drain retained fluids and improve circulation. The treatment is relaxing and may last 30 to 45 minutes, depending on individual needs. Read more
Endermologie or LPG® is an aesthetic treatment that applies negative pressure to create rhythmic suction and kneading. This movement produces a stimulating massage similar to lymphatic drainage, promoting the elimination of retained fluids.
It is a painless, non-invasive procedure that, in addition to reducing fluid retention, improves skin firmness and blood circulation. Read more
Carboxytherapy consists of the subcutaneous infiltration of carbon dioxide (CO₂), which improves tissue oxygenation and blood flow. This treatment is highly effective at stimulating lymphatic drainage, helping to eliminate accumulated fluids and toxins.
In addition, carboxytherapy helps improve skin elasticity and firmness, making it an ideal option for those looking to combat fluid retention while enhancing skin appearance. Read more
Alongside these treatments, adopting healthy habits is essential to improve circulation and reduce fluid accumulation in the body:
✔ Maintain a balanced, low-sodium diet rich in naturally diuretic foods such as fruits and vegetables.
✔ Stay well hydrated to avoid toxin build-up.
✔ Exercise regularly, especially resistance and strength training to activate circulation.
✔ Avoid a sedentary lifestyle and keep your legs elevated during rest.
At Clínica Áureo, our professionals are committed to providing personalised care, assessing each case individually to recommend the most appropriate treatment—or combination of treatments. If you experience symptoms of fluid retention and wish to improve your wellbeing, book your consultation with us.
(*) Diagnostic and informative consultation: It has a cost of 60€, although said amount will be discounted from the price to be paid for any of the medical treatments recommended by our professionals in said consultation. Read more…
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