Lower Extremity Edema or Swelling

Legs | General Practice | Lower Extremity Edema or Swelling (Symptom)


Description

Leg swelling can occur in any part of the legs, including the feet, ankles, calves or thighs. Leg swelling can result either from fluid build-up (fluid retention) or from inflammation in injured or diseased tissues or joints.

Causes

Many of the causes of leg swelling, such as prolonged standing or sitting or an injury, are relatively harmless in the long term, and a doctor often can easily identify the reason for the problem.

Sometimes, however, leg swelling may be a sign of a more serious disorder, such as heart disease or a blood clot. It is important to seek prompt diagnosis and treatment when leg swelling occurs for no apparent reason or is accompanied by apparently unrelated symptoms, such as breathing difficulties or chest pain.

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