Question

Please explain how conditions that alter the Starling forces [capillary hydrostatic pressure, capillary oncotic (colloid osmotic) pressure, and capillary permeability] lead to edema formation. Why does obstruction of lymphatic drainage result in edema? What are the adverse effects of edema formation?

Thank you in advance!

Answer 1

Increase in capillary hydrostatic pressure or decrease in oncotic pressure causes edema due to leakage of fluid from the vessels.Conditions that led to this are high venous pressure and hypoproteinemia.

Blockage of the lymph vessels that drain fluid from the tissues causes edema of the tissues.

It can lead to a painfull swelling,difficulty in movement,stiffness,decreased elasticity of the vessels,infection,etc.If untreated can be a problem to the lungs also/