What are some consequences of hypervolemia (fluid overload)?

Hypervolemia, or fluid overload, occurs when there is an excessive amount of fluid in the body, which can lead to significant health complications. One major consequence of hypervolemia is the development of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), pulmonary edema, and hypertension.

When the body retains too much fluid, it increases blood volume, which puts additional strain on the heart. This strain can cause the left ventricle to thicken, a condition known as LVH, as it has to work harder to pump the increased volume of blood. Additionally, the extra fluid can leak into the lungs, resulting in pulmonary edema, which presents as difficulty in breathing and decreased oxygen levels. The excess volume also contributes to elevated blood pressure, leading to hypertension, which can further harm cardiovascular health and increase the risk of heart disease.

These consequences underline the importance of managing fluid balance, especially in patients undergoing dialysis, where fluid removal is a critical component of treatment. Understanding this allows healthcare providers to monitor and intervene appropriately to prevent these serious outcomes in patients experiencing hypervolemia.