👉 Retained fluid, also known as interstitial fluid, is the fluid that surrounds and fills the spaces within the body's cells and tissues. It is a crucial component of the body's homeostasis, maintaining proper cell function and hydration levels. When blood vessels constrict or blood pressure drops, as during dehydration or heart failure, the body may retain more fluid to maintain adequate blood volume and pressure. This retained fluid can accumulate in various body compartments, including the interstitial spaces between cells and within blood vessels, leading to conditions like edema, where excess fluid accumulates in tissues, causing swelling. Thus, retained fluid plays a vital role in the body's ability to adapt to changes in blood volume and pressure, but excessive retention can lead to health complications.
