Discover the causes, symptoms, and treatment of oedema. Learn how fluid retention leads to swelling and ways to manage this condition effectively. OEDEMA definition: 1. an unhealthy condition in which liquid collects in the body tissues between the cells 2. UK…. Learn more. Edema is a swelling caused by fluid accumulation in the tissues of our body. Learn about the different types, causes, symptoms, and treatments. Edema is swelling caused by fluid trapped in your body’s tissues, most often in your feet and ankles. Your provider will test your edema by pressing their finger into the swollen area (pitting) to identify how much fluid is in your tissues (grade).