Final answer:
The principal causes of edema discussed with a client should include hypertension and heart failure, severe protein deficiency, renal failure, certain medications, and prolonged sitting or standing. Therapy focuses on treating the underlying cause and may include exercise, elevation, massage, and dietary adjustments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Principal Causes of Edema
When a client inquires about the persistence of fluid accumulation in the ankles, it is essential to discuss the principal causes of edema. Edema, which is the accumulation of excess water in the tissues, particularly in the extremities, can be caused by a variety of factors. These include medical conditions such as hypertension and heart failure, severe protein deficiency, renal failure, liver disorders like cirrhosis, and certain medications such as vasodilators, calcium channel blockers, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Other causes can be venous insufficiency due to prolonged standing or sitting and underlying medical conditions. Edema is a sign that there is an underlying issue that needs to be properly diagnosed and treated.
Therapy often includes lifestyle changes like exercise, elevation, massage, and compression therapy, as well as adjustments to diet, particularly a decreased salt intake to minimize sodium and water retention. These interventions aim to improve circulation and reduce the effects of the condition. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is crucial for the effective management of edema.