Hydremia is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by an excessive or above-normal level of blood plasma in the body. It is derived from two Greek words: "hydor" meaning water, and "haima" meaning blood. This condition is also referred to as "hydraemia" or "plasmic plethora".
In a healthy individual, blood plasma is present in a balanced and regulated amount. However, in cases of hydremia, excessive amounts of plasma are present, which may cause the blood to become diluted. This can result from various factors such as fluid retention, excessive fluid intake, kidney dysfunction, congestive heart failure, or certain hormone imbalances.
Symptoms of hydremia may include generalized swelling or edema, weight gain, shortness of breath, increased blood pressure, and fatigue. Additionally, individuals with hydremia may experience difficulty in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, leading to complications such as electrolyte disturbances or fluid overload.
Diagnosis of hydremia involves a thorough medical history evaluation, physical examination, and laboratory tests such as blood tests and urine analysis to measure blood plasma levels and identify the underlying cause.
Treatment for hydremia aims to manage the underlying cause and restore the balance of blood plasma levels. This may involve fluid restriction, diuretic medications to increase urine output and remove excess fluids, or addressing the primary condition causing the abnormal plasma levels.
In conclusion, hydremia refers to a medical condition characterized by an above-normal concentration of blood plasma in the body, resulting in symptoms such as swelling, weight gain, and difficulty maintaining fluid balance.
