Five Conditions That Make Your Legs Swell

Swelling of the legs, medically known as edema, is a prevalent condition that can affect individuals across the board. Dr. Segal highlights that while occasional leg swelling may be benign, persistent or sudden occurrences could be indicative of underlying health conditions....CONTINUE READING

Here are five potential causes of leg swelling:

Lack of Physical Activity:

Prolonged periods of sitting or standing without movement can lead to poor circulation and fluid retention, resulting in leg swelling.

Conditions like kidney disease, heart failure, and liver disease can exacerbate fluid retention, contributing to swelling.

Venous Insufficiency:

Venous insufficiency refers to the inability of veins to efficiently circulate blood back to the heart. When veins struggle with this function, blood may pool in the legs, causing swelling.

Varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis are conditions associated with venous insufficiency.

Lymphatic Issues:

The lymphatic system is crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the body. Disruptions in the lymphatic system, caused by infection, surgery, or trauma, can lead to leg swelling.

Lymphedema is a specific condition where the normal functioning of the lymphatic system is compromised.

Inflammation and Infection:

Inflammatory conditions like arthritis can contribute to leg swelling. Localized infections, such as cellulitis, induce inflammation, resulting in swelling in the affected area.

Pregnancy:

Pregnant women commonly experience swollen legs, particularly in later stages, attributed to increased pressure on blood vessels and the growing uterus affecting blood flow.