What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oedema
Example
The patient's oedema was a result of their heart condition. [oedema: noun]
Example
The doctor prescribed medication to reduce the oedema in the patient's legs. [oedema: noun]
swelling
Example
The swelling in her ankle was a result of the sprain. [swelling: noun]
Example
The doctor instructed the patient to apply ice to the swelling to reduce inflammation. [swelling: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Swelling is more commonly used than oedema in everyday language. Swelling is a general term that covers a wide range of contexts, while oedema is a medical term that is used more specifically in the context of fluid accumulation in the body's tissues.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oedema and swelling?
Oedema is a more formal term that is typically used in medical contexts, while swelling is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
