Swelling of the Feet and Legs

Swelling of the feet and legs is common finding in many individuals. The swelling is usually evident in both legs and feet and is a common complaint in older individuals. The swelling is most likely due to fluid or water accumulation.

In the younger population, feet swelling may be benign but feet swelling in the older population may have a serious medical disorder as a cause.

The fluid generally leaks out of the veins and into the tissues. Fluid build up in the feet can occur for many reasons and these include:

Benign causes:

- prolonged standing

- prolonged sitting

- varicose veins

- long distance swelling

- insect bites

- pregnancy

- obesity

- old age

Medical conditions

- heart failure

- liver failure

- kidney failure

- deep vein thrombosis

- malnutrition, starvation

- after surgery

- trauma

- lymphedema (only one leg is swollen)

- medications- drugs used to treat high blood pressure (calcium channel blockers (such as nifedipine, amlodipine, diltiazem, felodipine, and verapamil), Steroids, Antidepressants

How can one relieve swollen feet?

- Elevate your legs when lying down

- Exercise your legs. Muscle movement pushes the blood out of the legs.

- Wear support stockings

- Consume a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid retention and swelling.

- All individuals with a medical cause of leg swelling must follow treatment directions as ordered by the physician.