What is the medical term for swelling due to fluid accumulation?

The medical term for swelling caused by the accumulation of fluid in tissues is "edema." Edema occurs when excess fluid builds up in the interstitial spaces between cells, leading to visible swelling in various parts of the body. This condition can occur for a variety of reasons, such as inflammation, injury, or underlying health issues, including heart, kidney, or liver problems.

In contrast, a cyst refers to a closed sac-like structure that can contain fluid, air, or other substances, but it does not specifically denote swelling due to fluid accumulation. Hemorrhage involves the escape of blood from blood vessels, typically resulting in bruising or bleeding rather than the accumulation of interstitial fluid. Infection, while it may also lead to swelling, is characterized by the presence of pathogens and the resulting inflammatory response rather than a direct synonym for fluid accumulation. Understanding these distinctions is essential for accurately interpreting medical conditions and terminology.