Causes of Edema

Learn About the Causes of Leg Edema

There can be a variety of causes of leg edema. Swelling can be due to a number of factors such as:

• Venous Insufficiency: Venous insufficiency is one of the most common causes of leg edema. It is a disorder caused when the veins in the legs are unable to effectively move blood back to the heart. This functional disorder can lead to blood pooling in the feet and legs, which causes increased pressure in the veins and reduced blood flow to the superficial tissues of the legs and feet. The result of this reduced blood flow can be mild to severe leg heaviness and aching, unsightly varicose veins, leg edema, and recurrent skin infections and skin ulcerations.
• Pregnancy: During pregnancy women generally retain higher amounts of sodium and water. This excess fluid is needed by the fetus and placenta. A buildup of this excess fluid is a common cause of leg edema as well as swelling of the face, feet, and ankles.
• Drugs: Various prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause a variety of side effects, which may be one of the causes of leg edema. Such drugs include:
  • Blood pressure medicines
  • Estrogen
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Thiazolidinediones
  • Corticosteroids
  • Anabolic and androgenic steroids
• Diseases: Kidney, heart, and liver disease can cause leg edema.

Talk to your doctor or health care provider if you notice prolonged leg swelling as it can be a sign of leg edema. Be sure to educate yourself about the causes of leg edema so that you can better understand how to control and treat it.


Return to Therawear's Health Resources




This is only general information and is not meant for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Always consult your physician or other health care provider about all health concerns, conditions, and recommended treatments.