Symptom Definition

• The first symptom of fluid retention is a feeling of swelling in the affected area, with the appearance of oedema, which is painless but bothersome in everyday life.
• There may be muscle or joint pain, with a feeling of stiffness in the joints, and the oedema may make movement difficult.
• The appearance of the skin may change, becoming stretched and shiny.
• It may also become discoloured due to poor circulation.
• The skin may also be prone to itching.
• Heart rate may be affected with a faster pulse. If the venous return is irregular, the heart pump will compensate by increasing the pulse rate. Depending on the location of the oedema, breathing may be difficult.