What Are the Causes of Frequent Swelling in the Legs?

Information may not be reliable

But if swelling in the legs appeared after a long flight, several hours spent standing on the feet, or before menstruation, and then disappeared, then this is normal. However, if your legs swell every evening or in the morning and your face looks like a pillow, then the following diseases may be to blame.

1. Injuries

Your leg may become swollen due to damage of the ligaments or joints. In this case, a sore point swells due to the damage of blood vessels, and because the blood rushes to the aching area. If your legs are swollen and ache, then you should visit a trauma surgeon.  

2. Pregnancy

Edema in pregnant women often appears, especially in the final months of pregnancy. If edemas are not large, then this is normal, but the doctor should monitor the condition of the legs.

But if in addition to edemas, a woman experiences headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, and dizziness, this may be very dangerous to her life. These symptoms signal an increased pressure and, possibly, preeclampsia - a dangerous condition for a pregnant woman.

3. Lymphostasis

Sometimes fluid doesn’t leave the body, because the lymphatic system, which cleanses our body doesn’t function properly. Problems may occur if for some reason the lymphatic vessels and nodes cease to function. This happens in case of serious diseases, during the treatment of cancer, or if a person is obese. Special procedures and compression underwear will help reduce edema.

4. Varicose veins

The blood gives oxygen to all organs and tissues and returns to the heart through the veins — vessels with one-way valves that are necessary for the blood to flow in one direction. If something is wrong with the valves, for example, their function decreases with age, blood can accumulate in the legs and this leads to varicose veins.

5. Heart failure

In the case of heart failure, the heart can’t function normally and doesn’t pump blood with the necessary force. Therefore, the blood stagnates, especially in the legs. Pay attention to other symptoms of heart failure: frequent heartbeat, shortness of breath during any physical activity, and constant fatigue.

6. Kidney diseases

The kidneys filter the blood and secrete waste from it. If the kidneys suddenly fail, the excess water is retained in the body and accumulates at the bottom. Swollen face and bags under the eyes in the mornings can be a sign of kidney problems.

7. Liver diseases

If a person has hepatitis or often drinks alcohol, the liver cells die and their place is taken by connective tissue which doesn’t cope with filtration, and this is the main function of the liver. The fluid will accumulate again and lead to swelling in the legs and abdomen.

When Is Swelling Dangerous?

If your legs are swollen, it’s hard for you to breathe and you feel chest pain, you need to seek medical care as soon as possible. Also, don’t delay a visit to the doctor if:

• You press the swollen area with your finger, and there is a mark on the skin;

• The skin on the swollen area is red and it seems that it will crack soon.