Information on the leg edema

Leg edema has many causes including swollen ankles, swollen legs, peripheral edema, swollen ankles, and more. Edema of the legs is the result of too much fluid building in feet, legs and ankles. This particular condition is painless and the swelling is most common in elderly people and pregnant women. It can affect both the individual and can spread the legs as high as the calves and / or thighs. Since gravity acts against the accumulation of fluid, is particularly evident in these areasof the body.

There are many situations where swelling of the legs is more common. These include increasing age, pregnancy, obesity, prolonged standing, menstrual periods, long car rides or flights, to the foot or ankle injuries, as well as others.

There are some serious health conditions that could cause edema. These include liver or kidney failure and heart failure. The reason for swelling of the legs can occur due to these conditions is because there is more fluid than the bodyable to manage that accumulates in the ankles, feet and legs.

Quite a few other conditions may also result in edema, including infection, blood clot, sunburn, hunger, malnutrition, venous insufficiency, surgery, insect bite, and the like. There are quite a few medications that can cause edema of the legs, hips, including antidepressants, steroids, MAO inhibitors, hormones like birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, and tricyclic antidepressants.

Individuals affected with edema in the treatment of their conditionat home should reduce the amount of salt in the diet because it could help with the swelling and fluid retention. Also, wear elastic stockings can be very helpful for the edema of the legs. When you are lying down it is important to elevate the legs. Finally, be sure to get plenty of exercise, because this helps to remove fluid from the legs and return to the heart. If you have swelling of the legs and experience a tightness in the chest, chest pain, shortness of breath or you should call 911. Also, ifyou notice swollen ankles / legs / feet turn warm to the touch or has a fever, if you are pregnant or have liver disease, then you should contact your health care provider.

If your self-care measures are not resulting in improvement or worsening of ten is very important to visit your doctor as soon as possible.