Which term describes swelling in the extremities due to fluid buildup?

• A. Peripheral Edema
• B. Atherosclerosis
• C. Cardiac Tamponade
• D. Pink Frothy Sputum

Answer: (A)

Edema, the buildup of excess fluid in the interstitial spaces, is the concept here. When that fluid accumulates in the legs and arms, the swelling is called peripheral edema. This occurs because factors like increased capillary hydrostatic pressure (as in venous congestion from heart failure), reduced plasma oncotic pressure (low protein levels), or impaired lymphatic drainage push fluid out of vessels into the surrounding tissue, with gravity making the lower limbs the most noticeable area.

Atherosclerosis refers to fatty plaques narrowing arteries and isn’t about fluid swelling. Cardiac tamponade involves fluid around the heart restricting its pumping and is a distinct emergency; it can lead to edema as a consequence, but the term specifically describing limb swelling from fluid buildup is peripheral edema. Pink frothy sputum signals pulmonary edema, where fluid accumulates in the lungs, not the extremities.