Anasarca refers to the accumulation of excess fluid throughout the tissues in the body leading to very significant weight gain. Anasarca is most often due to heart failure, very low levels of the protein albumin in the blood, cirrhosis or certain types of kidney disease. Diuretics (“water pills”) are almost always needed. But to control the excess fluid, the underlying condition causing the anasarca also needs to be addressed.
Anasarca is a generalized swelling in the body that occurs due to fluid buildup. It is caused by various health problems like heart, kidney or liver failure, cancer, allergic reaction, vitamin deficiency, among other causes. A diuretic is indicated to help eliminate the fluid but the effective treatment will depend on the underlying disease.
→ Learn more about generalized body swelling: See the causes, symptoms, treatment options and more.
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Diuretics are medications that doctors frequently prescribe. Diuretics function by assisting the kidneys in releasing more salt into the urine, causing urination to produce more fluid. Potassium-sparing diuretics and loop diuretics are the two major kinds of diuretics used to treat anasarca.
Severe instances of anasarca require diuretics that assist the body to excrete the extra fluid in the form of urine.
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