Grading Edema (week 10)

Different Types of Edema

Edema – Excessive pooling of fluid in the spaces between tissues (interstitial tissues)

Brawny edema – edema that feels hard, tough, thick or leathery. Frequently occurs with chronic inflammation or systematic pathologies involving fluid shift abnormalities (CHF)

Pitting edema – Characterized by the formation of a sustained indention when the swollen area is compressed.

Lymphedema – Swelling in the arms or legs that results from an obstruction in the lymphatic system

Brawny Edema

Pitting Edema

Rating	Description
1+	Barely detectable impression when finger is pressed into skin.
2+	Slight indentation.  15 seconds to rebound
3+	Deeper indentation. 30 seconds to rebound.
4+	> 30 seconds to rebound.

Lymphedema

Nutritional Counseling – Avoid sodium

Processed food

canned vegetables

Vegetable juice

processed meats

canned beans

dairy convenience foods

seasoning blends

carbonated beverages

beer

restaurant food