Edema: Why You Swell and What to Do

Edema is the accumulation of fluid in body tissues, most commonly causing swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet. Causes range from prolonged sitting to heart failure.

Common causes include venous insufficiency, pregnancy, medications (calcium channel blockers, NSAIDs), heart failure, kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, and lymphatic obstruction.

Treatment targets the underlying cause. Leg elevation, compression stockings, dietary sodium restriction, and diuretics are commonly used. Walking activates the calf muscle pump and reduces venous pressure.

Seek evaluation for sudden swelling, one-leg swelling (possible DVT), swelling with shortness of breath or chest pain, or swelling not responding to elevation and rest.

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