Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT an effect caused by edema?

1. Swelling

2. Pain

3. Increased circulation

4. Discomfort

The correct answer is: Increased circulation

Edema is a condition characterized by an excess accumulation of fluid in the body's tissues, leading to a variety of noticeable effects. Among these effects are swelling, pain, and discomfort, all of which are directly related to the fluid retention that occurs in the affected areas. Swelling is the most recognizable symptom of edema, where areas of the body become enlarged due to fluid buildup. Pain may occur as a result of the pressure that the accumulated fluid exerts on surrounding tissues and nerves. Discomfort often accompanies these symptoms, as the presence of excess fluid can lead to feelings of heaviness or tension in the affected regions. In contrast, increased circulation is not an effect of edema. In fact, edema can lead to reduced circulation in the affected area because the swelling may compress blood vessels and obstruct normal blood flow. Thus, it is accurate to say that increased circulation is not associated with edema, making it the correct answer to the question.