Excessive fluid retention in the legs or ankles can be a sign of heart disease

Swelling in the Legs and Ankles

 

Swelling in the legs and ankles — medically known as oedema — is a common symptom that can have many different causes. It occurs when fluid builds up in the tissues, often leading to puffiness, tightness, or a feeling of heaviness in the affected area. The skin may appear stretched or shiny, and in some cases, pressing gently on the swollen area can leave a small indentation (known as pitting oedema).

 

What Causes Leg and Ankle Swelling?

 

In many people, swelling develops simply due to prolonged sitting or standing, reduced physical activity, or hot weather. It can also result from varicose or weakened leg veins, where blood has difficulty returning to the heart and tends to pool in the lower limbs.

However, persistent or severe swelling can sometimes signal a more serious underlying condition. Common medical causes include:

 

• Heart failure – when the heart’s pumping ability is reduced, pressure builds up in the veins, causing fluid to leak into surrounding tissues.

• Kidney or liver disease – these organs help regulate fluid balance, and when they are not functioning properly, fluid retention may occur.

• Medication side effects – certain drugs, including anti-inflammatory medicines, steroids, and some blood pressure treatments, can contribute to swelling.

• Venous insufficiency or blood clots – when veins in the legs become damaged or blocked.

 

When to Seek Medical Advice

 

While mild swelling often improves with leg elevation or light activity, it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience:

 

• Sudden or severe swelling, especially in one leg

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Chest pain or an irregular heartbeat

• Rapid weight gain or swelling that does not improve with rest

   

These symptoms may indicate heart failure or another cardiovascular problem requiring prompt assessment.

 

Diagnosis and Assessment

 

At your consultation, your cardiologist will take a detailed medical and family history, review your medications, and perform a physical examination. Depending on your symptoms, you may be referred for additional tests such as:

 

• Blood and urine tests to check for kidney, liver, or heart issues

• Echocardiogram or ECG to assess heart structure and function

• Ultrasound or vein studies to evaluate circulation in the legs

   

Treatment and Management

 

Treatment for leg and ankle swelling depends on the underlying cause. For mild cases, simple measures may help:

 

• Regular movement and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing

• Elevating the legs when resting

• Reducing salt intake and maintaining a healthy weight

• Wearing compression stockings to improve blood flow

   

If the swelling is linked to heart or circulatory problems, medications such as diuretics (“water tablets”), ACE inhibitors, or beta-blockers may be prescribed. In some cases, more advanced interventions like valve repair or pacemaker insertion may be needed.

 

In summary: Swelling in the legs and ankles is common and often harmless, but it can sometimes be a sign of cardiovascular or systemic disease. Early assessment helps identify the cause and guide appropriate treatment to protect both heart health and overall wellbeing.