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Foot, leg, and ankle swelling

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Foot swelling
Foot swelling
Lower leg edema
Lower leg edema

Alternative Names    Return to top

Swelling of the ankles - feet - legs; Ankle swelling; Foot swelling; Leg swelling; Edema - peripheral; Peripheral edema

Definition    Return to top

Abnormal buildup of fluid in the ankles, feet, and legs is called peripheral edema.

Considerations    Return to top

Painless swelling of the feet and ankles is a common problem, particularly in older people. It may affect both legs and may include the calves or even the thighs. Because of the effect of gravity, swelling is particularly noticeable in these locations.

Causes    Return to top

Foot, leg, and ankle swelling is common with the following situations:

Swollen legs may be a sign of heart failure, kidney failure, or liver failure. In these conditions, there is too much fluid in the body.

Other conditions that can cause swelling to one or both legs include:

Certain medications may also cause your legs to swell:

Home Care    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call 911 if:

Call your doctor right away if:

Also call your doctor if self care measures do not help or swelling worsens.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit    Return to top

Your doctor will take a medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination, with special attention to your heart, lungs, abdomen, legs, and feet.

Your doctor will ask questions like the following:

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include the following:

The specific treatment will be directed at whatever underlying cause is found. Diuretics may be prescribed. These are effective in reducing the swelling but have some side effects. Home treatment for benign causes of leg swelling should be tried before drug therapy under medical supervision.

Prevention    Return to top

Avoid sitting or standing without moving for prolonged periods of time. When flying, stretch your legs often and get up to walk when possible. When driving, stop to stretch and walk every hour or so. Avoid wearing restrictive clothing or garters around your thighs. Exercise regularly. Lose weight if you need to.

References    Return to top

Cho S. Peripheral edema. Am J Med. 2002; 113(7): 580-586.

Schroeder BM. ACOG practice bulletin on diagnosing and managing preeclampsia and eclampsia. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Am Fam Physician. 2002; 66(2): 330-331.

Update Date: 5/17/2007

Updated by: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Pediatrics and Psychiatry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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