Which of the following is a sign of edema?

Swelling in an extremity is a clear and direct sign of edema, which occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the tissues of the body, often leading to noticeable puffiness or swelling. This swelling can happen in various parts of the body, particularly in the legs, feet, or hands, and is typically a response to injury, inflammation, or other medical conditions. Recognizing swelling as a sign of edema is essential for identifying underlying health issues and determining appropriate treatments.

Joint stiffness, shortness of breath, and elevated heart rate are symptoms that may be associated with various medical conditions but do not specifically indicate edema. While joint stiffness can occur in inflammatory conditions that may also cause edema, it does not characterize the fluid accumulation itself. Shortness of breath can relate to a range of respiratory or cardiovascular issues, some of which may involve edema in the lungs (pulmonary edema) but do not refer to the general concept of edema in the extremities. Elevated heart rate can occur for numerous reasons related to stress, exercise, or medical conditions and is not indicative of fluid accumulation. Recognizing swelling as a key symptom helps distinguish edema from other symptoms that may arise in different contexts.