Swelling is a common problem that can affect anyone. Leg swelling can occur when you spend a long time on your feet or sit for an extended period. However, if your legs are swollen on a near-daily basis, it could be a sign of a dangerous underlying illness. Leg pain, loss of sensation, redness, and itching may occur as a result of swelling. Leg swelling that isn't treated might cause stiffness and make it challenging to walk.
It's critical to identify the cause of swelling in order to effectively treat it and prevent it from recurring. Read on to learn about some of the most common causes of leg edema.
1. Arthritis
Arthritis is an umbrella term that refers to a group of disorders that cause joint pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most prevalent kinds of arthritis. These illnesses have various causes, but they can induce inflammation and can lead to leg swelling. Failure to address swelling and inflammation can result in these conditions worsening and potentially leading to joint deformity.
2. Congestive heart failure
Congestive heart failure occurs when your heart is unable to pump enough blood to nourish all of your body's organs, including the kidneys. Fluid might build up in the lower limbs and abdomen as a result of this. Congested lungs, weariness, rapid heart rate, and dizziness are some of the other symptoms.
Congestive heart failure can be treated in a variety of ways. There are both non-invasive and invasive treatments available. Changes in one's lifestyle (diet, daily exercise, stress management, etc.) may also help alleviate the symptoms of congestive heart failure and reduce leg swelling.
3. Kidney failure
Kidneys are vital organs that filter excess fluid and waste from the blood and eliminate it through urine. Kidney failure can lead to an accumulation of waste and fluid in your body, resulting in edema in your feet and ankles. Vomiting, chest pain, hypertension, and nerve damage are some of the other signs and symptoms of renal failure.
Kidney failure treatment generally alleviates symptoms and reduces leg swelling. Kidney failure has no cure. Though, your doctor may recommend oral drugs as well as lifestyle or dietary changes. Dialysis (a procedure that simulates certain kidney functions) or a kidney transplant may be required in extreme situations.
4. Deep vein thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis is a medical disorder in which blood clots develop in one or more of your leg's veins. Because clots can rapture and move within your body, this is a major health issue. A clot in your heart can obstruct blood circulation and lead to a heart attack. Leg vein clots can cause leg swelling, pain, hyperpigmentation, and warmth by disrupting the normal blood flow.
Common vein treatment options include blood thinners, thrombolytics, compression stockings, and lifestyle adjustments. These treatments stop the clots from getting worse and alleviate the symptoms, such as leg swelling.
5. Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a skin condition that can be quite dangerous. The skin of the lower legs is commonly affected by this condition. The areas affected by cellulitis become swollen, inflamed, and warm to the touch. Moreover, cellulitis can enter your bloodstream and spread to other organs if left untreated. This infection can quickly turn life-threatening. Damage to the lymphatic drainage system and prolonged swelling are two major complications of cellulitis.
Cellulitis is treated with antibiotics in the same way that any other infection. The treatment usually lasts 5 to 10 days. Keeping the affected area elevated can help shorten the recovery period.
