Why does refeeding syndrome cause oedema?
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6 min read
Refeeding syndrome is a potentially fatal complication that can occur in severely malnourished patients when nutrition is reintroduced too quickly. A notable feature of this condition is oedema, or fluid retention, which results from rapid hormonal and metabolic shifts that overwhelm the body's systems. Understanding the complex interplay of insulin, electrolytes, and renal function is key to explaining why swelling occurs.