Leg swelling can occur in any part of your leg, including the ankle, calf, thigh, and feet. It usually occurs due to fluid buildup or inflammation caused by an injury or a disease. Most of the causes of swelling in the legs, such as accidental injury or prolonged sitting or standing, are nothing to be concerned about and can cure on their own without medical intervention.
However, in some instances, swelling can occur due to a more serious disorder, such as a blood clot or heart disease. It is essential to seek prompt medical treatment if you have persistent swelling for no apparent cause. Unexplained leg pain, chest pain, difficulty breathing, etc., are warning signs of a blood clot. Seek Weston swollen legs treatment today.
What are the common causes of swelling in the legs?
Leg swelling can occur for a multitude of reasons, but it is important to determine the cause to create the right treatment plan. From bug bites to bruises, swelling can arise from a myriad of causes.
When you hurt yourself while playing a sport or in another accident, your body sends fluids to that specific part to help it heal. The excess fluid drains once the affected part is healed, and the swelling decreases.
Swelling persists when your body is not able to circulate fluid and flush it out of your body. This especially happens when the injured body part is far from the heart, such as your legs and feet. This type of swelling can be dangerous and lead to several other complications, including:
- Severe allergic reactions
- Venous disease
- Kidney damage
- Liver disease
- Lymphedema
- Blood clots
- Infection
- Heart disease
- Heart failure
When should you seek prompt medical care for swollen legs?
While certain cases of swollen legs are harmless and cured on their own, it is important to know the warning signs of severe cases to seek medical treatment at the right time.
Watch out for the following symptoms:
- Swollen legs with no apparent cause.
- Leg pain with cool and pale skin.
- Leg swelling caused by an injury.
- Swelling that progresses.
- Swelling with blisters and redness in the leg.
- Swelling accompanied by fever.
- Swollen legs accompanied by a swollen abdomen.
- Chronic leg swelling.
- Sudden swelling when you are pregnant.
Scheduling a doctor’s visit
Before making a doctor’s appointment, consider these tips:
- Reduce salt in your diet.
- Wear compression stockings.
- Put a pillow under your legs when lying down.
- Do not stop prescribed medication without consulting with your doctor first.
- Take frequent breaks and do not sit or stand for too long.
