Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet, made clear.

Extra fluid in tissues is called edema. It may affect one leg or both. Causes include vein problems, medicines, and heart or kidney conditions.

The appearance alone does not tell us the cause.

Raised pressures and retained salt and water can cause swelling. Breathlessness, abdominal swelling, or weight gain may occur too.

Leaky vein valves can let blood pool in the legs. A clot in a deep vein is a different problem that may cause new swelling or pain.

New one-sided swelling, pain, warmth, or redness needs prompt assessment. Chest pain or breathlessness with it is an emergency.

Your clinician reviews medicines, examines the swelling, and may order blood tests, a vein ultrasound, or a heart ultrasound. Treatment depends on the cause.

Track swelling and weight as instructed. Do not change a water pill without a specific plan.