Can sciatica cause fluid retention? (+1 factors)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss whether sciatica may cause fluid retention. We will also discuss who is most susceptible to fluid retention due to sciatica and how to manage fluid retention caused by sciatica.
Can sciatica cause fluid retention?
Yes, sciatica may cause fluid retention. If the pressure on the sciatic nerve continues over an extended period, the protective barrier (myelin sheath) around the nerve can break down. Fluid may accumulate in the adjoining locations connected to the compressed nerve, especially feet (1).
In addition, limited mobility and an inactive lifestyle due to sciatic pain may cause fluid retention or oedema. Fluid retention is most probable in those cases when the sciatic pain is caused by a bone spur or herniated disc.
This blocks the typical flow of fluids in your body, leading to fluid retention. The fluid can extend some distance up and down the sciatic nerve from the point of compression and is often associated with swelling (2).
The best way to diagnose fluid retention in the lower extremities is to visit your doctor. Your doctor will diagnose if the fluid retention is due to sciatic pain or another underlying disease such as a kidney or heart problem.
What does research suggest?
In one of the case reports, a 40-year-old woman presented with bilateral leg swelling due to fluid retention caused by severe sciatic pain. With chiropractic care, the woman had a beneficial outcome and a reduction in sciatic pain, fluid retention, and swelling was observed (1).
In another case report, a 35-year-old man experienced fluid retention, swelling and oedema along with sciatic nerve pain. The pain and fluid retention lasted for several weeks but later improved with physiotherapy (3).
Another case reported fluid retention and oedema associated with right-side sciatica in a 19-year-old male patient after an MRI. The patient was also diagnosed with sacroiliitis (inflammation of the sacroiliac joint) (4).
Who is more susceptible to fluid retention due to sciatica?
Certain factors and underlying diseases may make some people more susceptible to fluid retention due to sciatica, including:
- People with cardiac disease, liver and dysfunction are more susceptible to fluid retention as compared to healthy individuals.
- Certain antihypertensive, corticosteroids, and antidepressant medications, such as Wellbutrin and Cetalopram, may increase the incidence of fluid retention.
- During pregnancy, the body holds more fluid than usual. This may cause fluid retention in the lower limbs.
- People with obesity may experience fluid retention and swelling due to the extra weight they carry. Malnutrition may also cause fluid retention.
What are the other symptoms of sciatica?
In addition to fluid retention, sciatica may be characterized by the following symptoms:
- Shooting leg and lower back pain,
- Constant burning and tingling pain in the buttocks,
- Difficulty moving the affected leg,
- Numbness and feeling of pins and needles,
- Changes in bowel and bladder control,
- Leg swelling, and
- Sudden pain and weakness in the legs (5).
What other conditions may cause fluid retention with sciatica?
Some other conditions which may cause fluid retention when you have sciatica include (6, 7, 8):
| Disease | Reason | Characteristics |
| Varicose veins | Twisted veins lead to weakening of the blood vessels. | Fluid retention and pain in legs and feet. |
| Kidney disease | Increased sodium and fluid retention due to kidney dysfunction | Pain in the lower back and oedema in the legs. |
| Pregnancy | Increase in blood volume to support the growth and development of the baby. | Fluid accumulation in the body, especially feet and legs. |
How to manage fluid retention with sciatica?
Managing fluid retention due to sciatica may require clinical intervention. Some of the useful methods include:
Talk to your doctor
If you experience fluid retention due to sciatica, consult your doctor immediately. Your doctor will offer personalised guidance and may prescribe antidiuretics under his supervision for the management of fluid retention.
Manage hydration and salt intake
Maintaining proper hydration and electrolyte balance is critical for flushing out extra fluid from the body to reduce fluid retention. Excessive salt intake may increase fluid retention, therefore you should cut back on salt in your diet.
Diet
You should increase your magnesium intake to help reduce fluid retention. Good source of magnesium includes nuts, leafy vegetable (spinach, turnip greens, and mustard greens), and whole grains. You may take magnesium supplements.
According to some studies, Vitamin B6 may decrease fluid retention and bloating. Some foods rich in Vitamin B6 include tuna, beans, chickpeas, and bananas. You can also take vitamin B6 supplements (9).
You should also take potassium-rich food (potatoes, spinach, avocado, and bananas) to maintain fluid balance and blood volume. You should limit your intake of carbohydrates such as pasta and white bread.
Try leg elevation for relief
If you are experiencing fluid retention in your legs, simply elevating your legs for 30 minutes daily can help you with the swelling. Consider using compression stockings and avoid prolonged periods of sitting and standing.
As a pharmacist, I would advise you to take regular breaks and move around for a few minutes to reduce the buildup of fluid accumulation due to sciatica. Many patients can find relief from sciatica pain and associated symptoms through a course of conservative therapies.
Always discuss your symptoms with your doctor to get the possible solutions and clinical interventions. You should do exercise, go on short walks, and attend physiotherapy sessions to lessen the sciatic pain and possible fluid retention.
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References
1.-
Chu EC, Wong JT. Subsiding of Dependent Oedema Following Chiropractic Adjustment for Discogenic Sciatica. European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine. 2018 Mar;5(1):1-4. https://d1wqtxts1xzle7.cloudfront.net/56355567/ejmcm-250-chu-libre.pdf?1524118393=&response-content-disposition=inline%3B+filename%3DSubsiding_of_Dependent_Oedema_Following.pdf&Expires=1703775302&Signature=OypcBn6oYdR5ZMHR3rk1uQgaMFCeDZD-X0HFjyObinusmn5MDrY4lr5~Jq09vgQNWGZnsJ2UXZp1s3i61is5vnfnFHQ19P5SZ5PDudmTNRsxVU1YvR6w68-F3v8iJ54aMRWDkrA~6IBRXQVaKxwGZGH523b7vHrMK0VKwZFPfCbyh3MVISDA3yRu1B3OiNQyfXWGlPPzj5qLbs8hGlNq1MmthPfsPT9OFjOevnvrxtp1S~9rclhGGBW6Rb97loaaNvi16xLvSjNm4lygJBWAmu9XJtoRtlxdlJYoXaM0bTscamdi93ScHmwDuQ-kPoH001NvrfrT~VQoiYYWNp~yBA__&Key-Pair-Id=APKAJLOHF5GGSLRBV4ZA
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Holmes JM, Sworn BR. Sciatic neuritis. British Medical Journal. 1945 Sep 9;2(4419):350. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2059849/pdf/brmedj03850-0009.pdf
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Ergun T, Lakadamyali H. CT and MRI in the evaluation of extraspinal sciatica. The British journal of radiology. 2010 Sep;83(993):791-803. https://www.birpublications.org/doi/full/10.1259/bjr/76002141
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Kumar M, Garg G, Singh LR, Singh T, Tyagi LK. Epidemiology, pathophysiology and symptomatic treatment of sciatica: a review. Int J Pharm Biol Arch. 2011 Aug;2(4). https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1&type=pdf&doi=28b2e16b5c834240fe102fc366dbd5d9592a50eb
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Campbell WB. Varicose veins. BMJ: British Medical Journal. 1990 Mar 3;300(6727):763. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1662559/
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Masoumi SZ, Ataollahi M, Oshvandi K. Effect of combined use of calcium and vitamin B6 on premenstrual syndrome symptoms: a randomized clinical trial. Journal of caring sciences. 2016 Mar;5(1):67. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4794546/
