Enlarged lower extremities.
What is leg swelling?
Leg swelling, also referred to as “lower extremity edema,” occurs when there is an abnormal accumulation of fluids, primarily water, in the legs. This condition, known as edema, can affect one leg or both legs equally. Common among older individuals, leg swelling is painless and manifests as the swelling of the affected area. When pressure is applied with a finger, sock, or shoe, the surrounding area tightens, and indentation may occur.
Causes of Leg Swelling:
Not all instances of leg swelling indicate a heart or circulation problem. Factors contributing to fluid buildup include being overweight, physical inactivity, prolonged sitting or standing, and wearing tight stockings or jeans. Conditions such as acute kidney failure can also lead to edema. Edema itself is not contagious or genetic; it occurs when small blood vessels leak fluid into nearby tissues, aiding in the healing process in response to factors like a twisted ankle, bee sting, or skin infection.
Serious underlying medical conditions that may cause edema include heart failure, kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, thyroid disorders, blood clots, infections, severe allergic reactions, and prolonged immobility. Additionally, varicose veins, certain high blood pressure and diabetic medications, as well as substances like calcium channel blockers, corticosteroids, estrogens, and NSAIDs, can contribute to edema.
Symptoms of Edema:
The symptoms of edema vary based on its location and the extent of swelling. Common signs include swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet, stretched and shiny skin, aching body parts, stiff joints, increased pulse rate and blood pressure, and headaches. Individual symptoms depend on the underlying cause, type of edema, and its location.
Edema Treatments:
Treatment for edema involves addressing the underlying condition. Temporary edema may improve by reducing salt intake or using diuretics (water pills) to increase urine production. Mild edema often resolves on its own, especially with elevation of the affected limb above the heart. Self-care techniques to prevent or reduce edema include avoiding tobacco and alcohol, compression, healthy eating, elevation, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular movement/exercise.
Minimally Invasive Edema Treatments:
For individuals with venous insufficiency, which may contribute to edema, minimally invasive procedures like endogenous ablation (laser, radiofrequency, or steam ablation) can be performed in an outpatient setting.
Preventing Edema:
While preventing edema may not be possible in some cases, physical activity, sodium restriction, leg elevation, support stockings, and avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or standing can help manage and reduce the risk of edema.