1. Fluid accumulation in the interstitial spaces
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Normally, a small amount of fluid leaks out of blood capillaries into the interstitial spaces (the tiny gaps between cells) to deliver nutrients and remove waste.
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This fluid is usually reabsorbed into the bloodstream or drained by the lymphatic system.
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Edema occurs when more fluid leaves the capillaries than is removed — this leads to excess fluid buildup in the tissues.
