Final answer:
Edema is the swelling caused by the excessive accumulation of fluid in the tissues, often due to underlying medical conditions. It often requires medical attention to diagnose and treat the underlying cause to alleviate the edema.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of abnormally large amounts of fluid in the tissues that results in swelling is called edema. Edema can occur due to various medical conditions, including heart failure, severe protein deficiency, renal failure, and liver diseases like cirrhosis. It involves the accumulation of excess water in the tissues, commonly in the soft tissues of the extremities, leading to symptoms such as subcutaneous tissue swelling, increased limb size, and tight, stretched skin.
Clinical edema requires medical treatment as it goes beyond normal swelling experienced due to daily activities. Treatment involves addressing the underlying cause to alleviate the edema, which may include managing conditions like hypertension, heart failure, or renal issues. Diagnosis and relief of the underlying condition are essential for restoring fluid balance and reducing edema.