Leg Swelling

Leg swelling is often a sign of excess fluid or water retention. Damage to or increased pressure in your legs can cause the capillaries within them to leak fluid. When this happens your kidneys retain water to compensate for the loss of fluid in your capillaries. Swollen legs are often the result of the water retention in your kidneys and/or the excess fluid that leaks from your capillaries into the surrounding body tissue.

Causes of Leg Swelling

Causes of leg swelling include:

• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Heart failure
• Kidney disease
• Pregnancy
• Problems with the drainage of the lymphatic system
• Reactions to drugs
• Venous insufficiency

Signs of leg swelling include stretched or shiny skin and puffiness. You might notice that your socks are too tight or that walking has become painful. You don't have to live with swollen legs - talk to your doctor about treatment.

Prevent and Treat Swollen Legs

Swollen legs can be prevented and treated by making simple changes to your everyday routine such as:

• Walking: Walking even for short periods of time a few times throughout the day can help get your blood moving and help prevent swelling due to venous insufficiency.
• Avoiding Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Sitting or standing for long periods of time reduces the circulation in your legs and can cause them to swell. Increase your circulation by avoiding prolonged sitting or standing.
• Limiting Your Salt Intake: Salt makes your body retain water. By limiting your salt intake, you can help prevent leg swelling.
• Wearing graduated support hosiery can help promote healthy blood flow between your legs and heart and is often doctor recommended to both treat and prevent swollen legs.

Swollen legs and ankles can be not only painful, but a sign of an underlying health problem. Talk to your doctor or health care provider if you notice prolonged leg swelling.


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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.