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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffLeg swelling can occur in any part of the legs, including the feet, ankles, calves or thighs. Leg swelling can result either from fluid buildup (fluid retention) or from inflammation in injured or diseased tissues or joints.
Many of the causes of leg swelling, such as prolonged standing or sitting or an injury, are relatively harmless in the long term, and your doctor often can easily identify the reason for the problem. Sometimes, however, leg swelling may be a sign of a more serious disorder, such as heart disease or a blood clot. It's important to seek prompt diagnosis and treatment when leg swelling occurs for no apparent reason or is accompanied by apparently unrelated symptoms, such as breathing difficulties or chest pain.
- O'Brien JG, et al. Information from your family doctor. What you should know about edema. American Family Physician. 2005;71:2118.
- Cho S, et al. Peripheral edema. American Journal of Medicine. 2002;113:580.
- O'Brien JG, et al. Treatment of edema. American Family Physician. 2005;71:2111.
- Treatment of pain and inflammation. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec22/ch336/ch336e.html. Accessed March 1, 2009.
- Wilkinson JM (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 3, 2009.
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