Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet—known medically as edema—is more than just an uncomfortable inconvenience. It can be a sign that something deeper is going on in your body. While occasional swelling can result from standing too long, salty meals, or hot weather, persistent or severe swelling often points to underlying health conditions that require attention.
Possible Causes of Swollen Legs and Edema
- Heart Problems (Congestive Heart Failure)
When your heart isn’t pumping blood efficiently, fluid can build up in your legs, ankles, and even your abdomen. This swelling often worsens at the end of the day and can come with shortness of breath or fatigue. - Kidney Disease
Your kidneys play a vital role in filtering excess fluid from the body. If they’re not functioning well, water and salt can accumulate, leading to swelling—especially around the legs, eyes, and hands. - Liver Disease (Cirrhosis)
Liver damage can disrupt protein production and fluid balance, causing swelling in the legs and abdomen (ascites). Yellowing of the skin or eyes may also appear. - Blood Clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
A clot in the deep veins of your leg can block blood flow, causing sudden swelling, pain, redness, and warmth in one leg. This is a medical emergency. - Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Damaged vein valves can cause blood to pool in the legs, leading to swelling, skin discoloration, and, over time, varicose veins. - Lymphatic System Disorders (Lymphedema)
When the lymphatic system is blocked or damaged—due to infection, surgery, or cancer—fluid can build up, causing persistent swelling and a heavy feeling in the legs.
When to Seek Medical Help
You should contact a doctor right away if swelling comes on suddenly, is severe, or is accompanied by chest pain, difficulty breathing, or redness and warmth in the leg.
Bottom line: Swollen legs and edema aren’t just cosmetic issues—they’re important signals from your body. Identifying the cause early can help prevent more serious complications and get you on the path to proper treatment. 