how does your body retain water?
<answer> Water retention problems arise when fluid is not removed by the lymph system properly; it is retained in the body tissues where it causes swelling. <context> Water retention problems arise when fluid is not removed by the lymph system properly; it is retained in the body tissues where it causes swelling (edema). Water retention in the body is most common in the feet and legs, but it can occur in the hands, arms, abdominal cavity (ascites) and around the lungs (known as pulmonary edema).