What Causes Your Legs to Swell?

March 21, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's

Leg Swelling

Leg swelling, also known as edema, can occur due to various reasons, including:

  • Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Remaining in the same position for an extended period can lead to fluid accumulation in the legs, especially if you sit or stand for long hours without moving.
  • Injury or Trauma: Injuries such as sprains, strains, fractures, or trauma to the legs can cause swelling due to inflammation and fluid buildup in the affected tissues.
  • Venous Insufficiency: This condition occurs when the veins in the legs have difficulty returning blood back to the heart. It can lead to pooling of blood in the legs and subsequent swelling, especially after prolonged standing.
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): DVT is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, often in the leg. It can cause swelling, pain, warmth, and redness in the affected leg. DVT is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
  • Varicose Veins: Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that usually occur in the legs. They can impair blood flow and cause fluid buildup, leading to swelling.
  • Heart Failure: Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the body, including the legs and ankles.
  • Kidney Disease: Kidney disease can cause fluid retention in the body, leading to swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet.
  • Liver Disease: Liver disease, such as cirrhosis, can lead to fluid retention and swelling in the legs due to decreased production of albumin, a protein that helps maintain fluid balance in the body.
  • Lymphedema: Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system is impaired, leading to fluid buildup and swelling, usually in the arms or legs.
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, calcium channel blockers, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause fluid retention and leg swelling as a side effect.
  • Infection or Inflammation: Infections or inflammatory conditions such as cellulitis or arthritis can cause localized swelling in the legs.
  • Pregnancy: During pregnancy, hormonal changes and increased pressure on blood vessels from the growing uterus can lead to fluid retention and swelling in the legs and ankles.

If you experience persistent or severe leg swelling, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, warmth, redness, or difficulty breathing, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly, as it could indicate a serious underlying condition.

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