Final answer:
Edema is the accumulation of excess water in the tissues, most commonly in the soft tissues of the extremities. It can be caused by various factors such as water leakage from blood capillaries, medical conditions, drugs, pregnancy, injury, or allergic reactions. Edema is characterized by swelling, increased limb size, and stretched, tight skin.
Step-by-step explanation:
Edema is the accumulation of excess water in the tissues, most commonly in the soft tissues of the extremities. It is caused by factors such as water leakage from blood capillaries, an underlying medical condition, certain therapeutic drugs, pregnancy, localized injury, or an allergic reaction.
Symptoms of edema include swelling of the subcutaneous tissues, an increase in limb size, and stretched, tight skin. A quick way to check for edema is to press a finger into the suspected area - if the depression persists for several seconds after the finger is removed, it is likely to be indicative of edema.