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Alternative names Return to top
Swelling of the ankles - feet - legs; Ankle swelling; Foot swelling; Leg swelling; Edema - peripheral, Peripheral edemaDefinition Return to top
Abnormal buildup of fluid in the ankles, feet, and legs is called peripheral edema.Considerations Return to top
Painless swelling of the feet and ankles is a common problem, particularly in older people. It may affect both legs and may include the calves or even the thighs. Because of the effect of gravity, swelling is particularly noticeable in these locations.
Common Causes Return to top
Foot, leg, and ankle swelling is common with the following situations:
Swollen legs may be a sign of heart failure, kidney failure, or liver failure. In these conditions, there is too much fluid in your body.
Other conditions that can cause swelling to one or both legs include:
Certain medications may also cause your legs to swell:
Home Care Return to top
Call your health care provider if Return to top
Call 911 if:
Call your doctor right away if:
Also call your doctor if self care measures do not help or swelling worsens.
What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top
Your doctor will take a medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination, with special attention to your heart, lungs, abdomen, legs, and feet.
Your doctor will ask questions like the following:
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include the following:
Prevention Return to top
Avoid sitting or standing without moving for prolonged periods of time. When flying, stretch your legs often and get up to walk when possible. When driving, stop to stretch and walk every hour or so. Avoid wearing restrictive clothing or garters around your thighs. Exercise regularly. Lose weight if you need to. Update Date: 9/21/2003 Updated by: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma., and Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by David Webner, M.D., Department of Family Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (5/23/2003).
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |