Leg And Foot Swelling

What is edema?

Edema is the clinical term for soft tissue swelling. The swelling can cause pain and disrupt your mobility, especially when it occurs in your feet and legs. It can develop slowly or suddenly.

The swelling is usually due to a buildup of water in your soft tissue, although the fluid may include protein or other cells if the swelling is due to an infection or obstruction in your lymphatic system.

What causes swelling in my legs and feet?

Many factors contribute to swelling in your feet and legs, including a range of cardiovascular issues, such as heart disease, venous insufficiency, and congestive heart failure. You may also develop edema in your legs if you have deep vein thrombosis or another vascular blockage that inhibits the flow of blood back to your heart and lungs.

Other conditions that cause swelling in your feet and legs include kidney failure, liver disease, and diabetes.

When should I see a doctor about swelling in my feet and legs?

If you have chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness combined with swelling in your feet and legs, you should seek immediate medical attention. However, even if you don’t have other symptoms, you should talk to a doctor about your edema as it’s often a sign of other severe health conditions.

How is the cause of edema diagnosed?

The team at Coastal Heart Medical Group diagnoses the cause of edema with a physical exam and a variety of blood tests and diagnostic imaging studies. Your doctor examines your legs and checks your pulse at various points in your body. If they suspect a circulation problem like venous insufficiency, they may use an ultrasound to monitor the blood flow in your legs.

If your doctor thinks your edema is a side effect of another heart issue, they’ll order blood tests, electrocardiograms, and echocardiograms to examine your heart function.

How are swollen feet and legs treated?

Your treatment depends on the condition causing your edema. Your doctor at Coastal Heart Medical Group may prescribe medication or recommend minimally invasive surgical procedures for cardiovascular issues. They can also advise lifestyle modifications, including salt reduction, smoking cessation, and added exercise. You may also benefit from wearing compression socks to support healthy circulation in your legs and feet.

If you have chronically swollen feet and legs, call Coastal Heart Medical Group or make an appointment online today.