What term refers to swelling from fluid accumulation in the body tissues?

The term for swelling from fluid accumulation in the body tissues is edema. This condition occurs when excess fluid leaks from blood vessels and accumulates in the interstitial spaces, leading to noticeable swelling, particularly in areas such as the legs, feet, and hands. Edema can result from various factors including injury, inflammation, and underlying health issues such as heart or kidney problems, which disrupt the body’s ability to manage fluid balance effectively.

Ischemia refers to a reduced blood flow to a tissue, which can lead to tissue damage or necrosis. Infarction is the death of tissue due to a lack of blood supply, often resulting from ischemia. Hemorrhage involves bleeding caused by the rupture of blood vessels and is not characterized by fluid accumulation in tissues in a manner akin to edema. This distinction makes edema the correct term for swelling due to fluid retention.