Engorgement
Engorgement
Engorgement (pronunciation: /ɪnˈɡɔːdʒmənt/) is a medical term referring to the state of being distended or swollen due to the accumulation of fluid or blood.
Etymology
The term 'engorgement' is derived from the French word 'engorger', meaning 'to block or fill to excess', which in turn is based on the Latin 'gurges', meaning 'whirlpool' or 'gulf'.
Definition
Engorgement typically refers to the painful swelling of breast tissue that can occur in the early days of breastfeeding. It can also refer to the swelling of any tissue due to increased blood flow or fluid retention, such as in lymphedema or edema.
Symptoms
Symptoms of engorgement may include swelling, heat, redness, and pain. In the case of breast engorgement, the breasts may feel hard and uncomfortable, and the skin may appear shiny and stretched.
Causes
Engorgement can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, inadequate drainage of milk from the breasts, or blockage of the lymphatic system.
Treatment
Treatment for engorgement depends on the cause and may include measures to reduce swelling, such as cold compresses, analgesics, and in some cases, medical procedures to drain excess fluid.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Engorgement
- Wikipedia's article - Engorgement
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