Common causes include steroid-related fluid retention (if on prednisolone), hypoalbuminemia,
kidney involvement (protein loss in urine), heart disease, hypothyroidism, or less commonly progression of
liver disease despite near-normal LFTs.
Next Steps
I recommend evaluation with serum
albumin, renal function tests, urine routine with urine protein/albumin,
electrolytes,
thyroid profile (
TSH), and review of current medications. If swelling is significant or worsening, an examination by a hepatologist/gastroenterologist is advised. Seek urgent medical care if there is breathlessness, facial swelling, reduced urine output, severe abdominal distension, or chest pain.