Leg Edema

Symptoms

• Swelling of the legs, ankles, or feet.
• Feeling of heaviness or tightness in the legs.
• Fatigue and reduced mobility.
• Skin changes such as tight or shiny skin.
• Pain and discomfort during movement.

Causes

Leg edema can be caused by various factors, including:

• Poor blood circulation, such as varicose veins and thrombosis.
• Problems with the lymphatic vessels.
• Heart failure.
• Liver disease.
• Kidney disease.
• Skin diseases, such as extensive erysipelas, psoriasis, or eczema on the legs.
• Prolonged standing or sitting.
• Overweight.
• Pregnancy.
• Side effects of medication.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of leg edema is made by a doctor based on:

• Medical history.
• Physical examination.
• Additional tests such as ultrasound, blood tests, or lymphoscintigraphy.

Treatment

The treatment of leg edema depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Medications to reduce fluid accumulation.
• Compression therapy, such as wearing compression stockings.
• Lymphatic drainage.
• Dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
• Surgical procedures in severe cases.

Self-Care

In addition to medical treatments, self-care measures can help manage leg edema:

• Elevate the legs whenever possible.
• Avoid prolonged standing or sitting.
• Regular physical activity such as walking or swimming.
• Healthy diet with low salt intake.
• Avoid tight clothing and shoes.
• Regularly check feet and legs for signs of infection.