Leg Edema Treatment
Leg edema is caused by fluid accumulation in the legs and is considered uncomfortable by many people. It is often caused by prolonged standing, hot weather, or menstruation. It can also be a symptom of severe health problems such as heart, kidney, or liver problems. Therefore, the treatment of it may vary depending on the underlying causes, and medical intervention may be required when necessary.
What is Edema?
Edema is a condition in which swelling occurs in the tissues due to fluid accumulation in the body. It is usually seen in the legs, feet, and ankles. However, it can also occur in other parts of the body.
What Causes Leg Edema?
It is caused by the leakage of fluids from the vessel walls into the tissue spaces due to impaired blood circulation. In addition, heart, kidney, liver, lymphatic systems, and hormonal imbalances can also be among the causes of it.
What Causes Single-Leg Edema?
Varicose veins usually cause it in one leg, lymphedema, deep vein thrombosis, or vein injury. It can also occur after an infection or injury.
What Causes Double Leg Edema?
Double leg edema is usually caused by systemic causes such as heart, kidney, or liver disease. In addition, factors such as prolonged standing, malnutrition, inadequate exercise, hormonal changes, or medication can also be among the causes of double-leg edema.
What are the Symptoms of It?
Symptoms of leg edema are as follows:
- Swelling in the legs
- Feeling of weight
- The sensation of skin tightening
- Tight shoes
- Skin shine and bright red or blue discoloration
Which Diseases Can Leg Swelling be a Symptom of?
Leg edema can be a symptom of the following diseases:
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Lymphedema
- Varicose veins
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Hypothyroidism
How to Treat It?
Treatment of leg edema varies depending on the underlying causes. For example, it can be reduced by treating heart, kidney, or liver diseases. Treatment options include the following methods:
- Regular exercise
- Limiting salt intake
- Frequent movement
- Use of edema socks
- Diuretic drugs (If your doctor recommends, you can use diuretic drugs to remove fluid accumulated in the body).
What to Do in Everyday Life For Leg Swelling
The things you should do in your daily life for leg edema are as follows:
- Keep your feet up. (It will be enough to keep your feet 20 - 30 cm high).
- Walk regularly.
- Stay cool in hot weather.
- Reduce salt consumption.
- Keep your weight under control.
These suggestions are simple steps that people with it can take daily. However, if it is severe or persists for a long time, you should consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
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It may occur due to vitamin B6 and magnesium deficiency.
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Yes, heart failure is one of the causes of it. In people with heart failure, when the heart does not pump enough blood, blood can accumulate in the veins and cause swelling in the legs.
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Untreated it can lead to severe infections or skin damage, permanent skin changes on the legs, increased edema, pain, limitation of movement, and serious complications.
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During pregnancy, leg edema can occur due to increased blood volume and pressure. Hormonal changes and enlargement of the uterus in the later stages of pregnancy are also causes of it (swelling).
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Yes, swelling in the legs can also occur due to vascular occlusion. Vascular occlusion can reduce blood flow in the legs, which can cause edema in the legs.
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Some blood pressure medications can cause it. Primarily calcium channel blockers are known to cause it.