Water retention, also known as edema, occurs when fluid is not removed from the body tissues, including the skin. Some common causes of fluid retention include:

• Gravity: Standing up for long periods of time allows fluid to ‘pool’ in the tissues of the lower leg.

• Dietary deficiency: Insufficient protein or vitamin B1 (thiamine) in the diet.

• Medications: Certain drugs, including high blood pressure medication (antihypertensives), corticosteroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are known to cause fluid retention.

• Chronic venous insufficiency: Weakened valves in the veins of the legs fail to efficiently return blood to the heart, resulting in the pooling of blood and varicose veins.

• Medical conditions: Fluid retention may be a symptom of serious underlying conditions, including kidney disease, heart failure, liver damage, and thyroid problems.

• Hormonal changes: Hormones taken for birth control or hormone replacement therapy can cause water retention, and it is normal for a woman to feel puffy or bloated in the days leading up to their period.

• Sitting or standing too long: Gravity keeps blood in your lower extremities, and sitting or standing for too long can cause your tissue to hold water.

• Flying in an airplane: Changes in cabin pressure and sitting for an extended period of time may cause your body to hold onto water.

Mild fluid retention can be helped by reducing the amount of salt in your diet, getting regular exercise, and wearing support stockings to increase circulation in the lower limbs. However, if you experience severe or sudden fluid retention, it is important to seek medical attention as it may be a sign of a serious underlying condition.