The human body can consist of up to 70% water, and this fluid naturally leaks into body tissues from the blood. This is usually drained by the lymphatic system, but sometimes this drainage slows down, causing fluid retention.

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Fluid retention can occur all over the body, or it can be localised to a specific area – the feet, ankles and hands are common target zones.

Hot weather

Hot weather is a common cause of fluid retention. The heat causes blood vessels to expand, to encourage heat loss, and body fluid moves into the hands and legs as a simple result of gravity.  This explains why the rings on your fingers become harder to remove on a hot, beach holiday, yet worryingly loose as soon as you jump in the pool.

Hormones

Hormones also play a major role – women can experience water retention in the two weeks leading up to their period, whilst oral contraceptives that contain oestrogen can also cause retention as can pregnancy. In the case of hormone related water retention, it’s usually the stomach that is most effected.

Training

In addition, hard workouts – weight training or cardio – can cause micro tears in muscle fibres. These tears, which tend to be accompanied by muscle aches, or DOMS, are quickly repaired by the body.

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The result is stronger muscles, but in the meantime excess fluid builds up to prevent further injury. This is why body builders often take pictures after workouts – muscles appear more ‘pumped’ – but for the individual training to lose weight, the retention can be quite disheartening.

Other Causes

Certain medications, standing for very long periods of time, and injuries that cause swelling such as sprains or burns are among many other causes. Illnesses such as Kidney disease can also present with water retention, so do see a doctor if you experience other symptoms or retention is severe.

Sever fluid retention can also be diagnosed by pressing your thumb into an affected area –  this can leave an indentation for a couple of seconds.