What causes fluid build up?!
Question:
What causes fluid build up?
My knee had been hurting for a week, anytime I walk or bend it or even put pressure on it. My knee was weak and somtimes would give out. This just sort of happened over night. I have never injured it nor have I done anything out of the norm to make it hurt. I went to the doctor yesterday and he took xrays and said it looked fine except it had fluid around my knee cap. He could not give me an explanation as to why. He simple said he didn't know why but he knew how to treat it. So I am wondering what is the problem? Perhaps I should get a second opinion?? Thanks.
Answers:
Painful knee effusions may be the result of trauma, overuse injuries or an underlying disease or condition.
Water on the knee is a general term used to describe excess fluid that accumulates in or around your knee joint. Your doctor may refer to this condition as a knee "effusion." Painful knee effusions may be the result of trauma, overuse injuries or an underlying disease or condition.
The most common cause of water on the knee is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is characterized by the breakdown of joint cartilage and may affect any joint in your body, including your hips, knees, lower back and feet.
The type of fluid that builds up in your knee depends on the underlying disease, condition or type of traumatic injury that causes excess fluid to build up. This joint (synovial) fluid may contain irritating crystals, bacteria or blood.
The pain and swelling associated with water on the knee don't have to limit your mobility. Once your doctor determines the cause of this condition, he or she can recommend self-care measures and treatment to keep you on the move.