Swollen Legs

Legs | Cardiology | Swollen Legs (Symptom)


Description

Swollen feet are a symptom of undetected problems, or a sports injury, pregnancy, heart disease, fluid retention, kidney problems or other problems. If a person is repeatedly swollen feet, swollen can be a sign of serious heart disease, kidney and liver but a minor vascular problem.

Causes

Edema leg, ankle and the foot is common in these situations: required a long leg (standing); long airplane flights or automobile roads; diet high in salt and carbohydrates; history of phlebitis; abuse of laxatives; abuse of diuretics; substance abuse; menstrual period (for some women); pregnancy - excessive swelling may be a sign of preeclampsia - common and serious condition called toxemia in pregnant; overweight; Age; Injuries to the ankle or foot.

Leg edema can be a sign for heart attack, kidney failure or liver failure. In the presence of these diseases, the body there is a high volume of liquid. Leg edema can occur and the presence of other medical conditions: blood clotting; Infections of the foot; venous insufficiency; varicose veins; burns (including sunburn); insect sting and spiders; starvation or malnutrition; surgery on the foot / ankle; lymphatic obstruction;allergic reactions; neuromuscular diseases.

Edema can be caused by taking drugs: treatment with hormones, like estrogen (in composition contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy) and testosterone; blood pressure drugs called calcium channel blockers (such as nifedipine, amlodipine, diltiazem, felodipine, verapamil); steroids; antidepressants, including MAO inhibitors (phenelzine and tranylcypromine like) and tricyclic antidepressants (such as nortriptyline, desipramine and amitriptyline).

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnostic tests: Blood tests such as CBC or biochemical analysis; ECG; X-ray examination of the chest region or limb; Analysis of urine. A task usually lead, leg swelling due to weight gain and increased blood volume required to sustain pregnancy. On the other hand, heart disease, liver or kidneys, leading to swollen feet, and a thyroid condition.

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