
In 40% of the patients, lower leg edema was present, while 22% had swelling in the ankle region. The inability of the heart to properly pump blood to the body leads to the backing up of blood in the extremities.Ī study revealed that 78% of heart failure patients presented with lower extremity edema. Patients with progressed state of heart failure develop pulmonary congestion and peripheral edema. Heart FailureĪ serious cause of peripheral edema and leg swelling is congestive heart failure. Investigations revealed that the edema was due to May-Thurner syndrome. As per a case study, a 30-year-old female presented with left leg swelling that persisted for four weeks. Symptoms usually come and go depending upon your activity.
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Patients may notice significant tenderness and leg swelling. Thus, it is also known as iliac vein compression syndrome. The underlying cause of this syndrome is compression of the iliac vein. This disease affects the blood flow from the legs and pelvis to the heart. May-Thurner SyndromeĪ somewhat neglected cause of swelling in the leg below knee level is May-Thurner syndrome (MTS). Anticoagulant therapy is used to treat the disease. Obesity and living a sedentary life can contribute to the development of clots in the lower legs. Research shows that pain, redness, and swelling of the affected leg are common presenting features of DVT. Patients suffering from the condition often notice swelling in the legs accompanied by pain. These may include: Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT)ĭVT, or deep venous thrombosis, is a condition that arises due to the formation of blood clots in the legs (most commonly in the deep calf vein). Peripheral edema, or fluid retention, is not a disorder but a presentation of different underlying serious conditions. The term peripheral edema is used to describe the excessive fluid build-up in the legs and is common in individuals above 50 years of age. In the vast majority of cases, swelling results from fluid accumulation in the legs, clinically known as peripheral edema. Leg swelling typically occurs due to two primary reasons: fluid retention and inflammation. Read on to learn about the potential causes of leg swelling below the knee. So, if you notice extra pressure, swelling, or heaviness in your lower legs, this article is for you. Some of these underlying maladies are mild, while some are life-threatening. Several diseases have a direct link with swelling in the legs below knee level.

The condition can worsen with time if left untreated. Leg swelling can be a seriously debilitating condition that hinders you from performing basic tasks of the day. Careers Pay Now Referring Providers (301) 486-4690 Main navigation
