Why is my left leg swelling? Possible causes of swelling in one leg

Every day we expose our body to physical activity of varying intensity, which primarily affects the condition of our legs - every evening we experience fatigue and swelling in our legs. Of course, such fatigue in the legs is a completely natural phenomenon, however, in some cases, our legs can become swollen and painful, which in turn leads us to the most anxious thoughts. So why does this happen? And how dangerous is it? In this article we will answer your question of why your leg swells and hurts.

Why my leg is swollen and hurts: reasons

So, as we have already said, pain in the legs is a completely natural phenomenon that each of us periodically encounters: severe physical fatigue and grueling physical activity, our lifestyle and many other factors directly affect the condition of our legs, which is why we experience pain in the legs. legs. In addition to the painful sensations themselves, all of the above can also cause swelling or swelling in the legs. Of course, all this is quite natural, because such symptoms arise as defensive reaction of our body to excessive physical activity, however, what can swelling of the legs that occurs for no apparent reason indicate? As many have already guessed, in this situation we are already talking about the presence of some pathology, which is manifested by symptoms such as swelling and pain in the legs. Below we will tell you about these pathologies in more detail.

1. Injuries lower limbs.

Depending on what type of leg injury we have received, it may swell and hurt with varying intensity. As a rule, when we receive a bruise, dislocation or sprain, we rarely turn to a specialist for help, because painful sensations and other “consequences” soon go away on their own, however, this is precisely our mistake, since in the future even the most insignificant microtrauma will contribute to a prolonged resumption of pain. That is why, when receiving any injury, it is always necessary to use an elastic bandage and special ointments;

1. Physical overexertion.

Each of us leads our own specific lifestyle with our own specific physical activity, and if we violate such a “schedule” and load our body with excessive physical activity, then in this situation, swelling and pain in the legs is a natural reaction of our “unprepared” muscles for such loads. As a rule, such “manifestations” of fatigue overtake us in the late afternoon and, after some time of rest, they go away on their own. However, it is worth considering that such symptoms are also characteristic of the first stage of venous insufficiency, which in turn develops against the background of a disease such as varicose veins;

1. Varicose veins.

According to statistics, the fair half of humanity is most susceptible to this disease, namely in 70 percent of cases, which in turn is due to the factors that cause the occurrence of this pathology. Among all the reasons causing development varicose veins, it is worth highlighting the one that most provokes the development of this pathology, namely, wearing incorrectly selected shoes. Frequent wearing of high-heeled or platform shoes in combination with long walking are the fundamental factors for the development of varicose veins;

1. Arthritis.

It is worth noting that this disease is very insidious, because its untimely treatment can lead to disability in the future, which is why if regular swelling and pain occurs in any specific area of ​​​​the leg - lower leg, foot, knee or thigh - it is worth mandatory contact an appropriate specialist. As a rule, arthritis “spreads” to one area of ​​the leg, in the area of ​​which the patient experiences pain and swelling. Some more additional symptoms of this disease– redness of the skin in this area, as well as an increase in its temperature – it becomes hot to the touch;

1. Arthrosis.

Arthrosis is a joint disease in which the cartilage layer of the joints themselves is destroyed, causing the patient to experience pain not only in the joints of the legs, but throughout the body. As for the causes of this disease, the most important factor influencing the development of this pathology is frequent and uneven physical activity on the body. For example, in most cases, representatives of such professions as drivers, salespeople, builders, as well as those who spend most of their working time sitting at a computer have to deal with such a diagnosis. Specialists of all the above profiles are forced to remain in the same position for a long time, why muscles and the joints subsequently cannot cope with any physical activity. Various endocrine diseases (diabetes mellitus, excess body weight), as well as hereditary predisposition are also the causes of such a diagnosis as arthrosis;

1. Thrombophlebitis.

Thrombophlebitis is a vascular disease that experts call the most insidious and unpredictable, which in turn is due to the fact that its detection usually occurs at a late stage. The main reason for the development of this disease is the presence of a pathology such as varicose veins in an advanced state, however, factors such as heredity and the presence of infection are also the “causative agents” of this dangerous pathology.

As for the symptoms of this disease, these include the following: minor swelling of the legs and redness of the skin in the same area, as well as itching, burning and a feeling of heaviness in the legs;

1. Fasciitis.

Fasciitis is a disease in which the patient experiences pain in the foot, and the ankle itself swells quite strongly. Surprisingly, in most cases, this pathology affects women aged about forty years, as well as people who suffer from diseases such as arthritis and arthrosis, as well as various diseases spine or leg joints.

As for the symptoms of this disease, in this situation the patient, as a rule, experiences pain and discomfort in the morning when taking the first steps, however, a similar pain syndrome can occur at any other time of the day. Incorrectly selected shoes, as well as high-heeled shoes and flat feet - all of these are among the causes of the development of a disease such as fasciitis.

Swollen and painful leg: classification of symptoms:

It is also worth noting that the presence of any specific pathology can be judged by the location of the swelling and the intensity of the painful sensations themselves. Next, we will tell you in more detail about such symptoms and what pathologies they may indicate.

Mild swelling, discomfort and minor pain in the legs;

The above symptoms in most cases are not associated with any disease: as a rule, mild swelling, as well as minor pain in the legs, bother us at the end of a working day and are a common reaction to physical activity: severe physical activity, standing on your feet for a long time or walking for a long time in uncomfortable shoes always provokes the occurrence of such symptoms. However, it is worth considering that exactly the same symptoms at an early stage manifest a disease such as varicose veins, which in turn, if left untreated, can progress into pathologies that are more dangerous to our health;

Swelling and pain of equal intensity;

If your leg is swollen and you feel quite intense pain in the same place, then in this situation we are talking about possible defeat inflammatory process of structures such as the meniscus, cartilage, ligaments and periarticular capsules. Such multiple damage to any joint always indicates the presence of a disease such as polyarthritis, which can occur in its various forms - rheumatic, rheumatoid, gout and others.

However, not only this disease occurs with similar symptoms; if swelling and pain occur on the lower leg or thigh inside these segments, then in this situation we are talking about a diagnosis such as thrombophlebitis. With this disease, in addition to the above symptoms, patients also experience redness of the skin and dilated veins in these areas. Inflammatory diseases of the joints such as fasciitis, phlegmon and myositis also “announce” themselves with the above symptoms.

Swelling is more pronounced than pain;

If swelling causes more discomfort than the pain itself, then in this situation we can talk about pathologies such as heart or kidney failure. Initially, you need to pay attention to the localization of swelling: if similar symptom manifested itself on the shins of both legs, then in this situation we are talking about a pathology such as heart failure. It is also worth noting that with this disease, pain in the legs themselves may be moderate, or may be completely absent. The formation of small ulcers at the site of swelling is another symptom of an illness such as heart failure.

If swelling of the legs is caused by a pathology such as renal failure, then in this situation, in addition to the swelling and pain itself, a symptom such as cramps is added calf muscles, which in turn can be quite painful.

Painful sensations are more pronounced than swelling;

If the pain in the leg is quite intense, and the swelling is not pronounced, then in this situation we are talking about the presence of serious diseases. As a rule, pain and swelling appear on one side and in one specific place, for example, in the knee, lower leg, thigh, etc. As for the diseases themselves, the list of probable pathologies includes such pathologies as endorteritis and atherosclerosis (diseases associated with lesions arterial vessels), various tumors (metastases or bone tumors or spinal tumors).

As you can see, symptoms such as swelling and pain in the leg can be associated with serious diseases and pathologies, and therefore, if they occur, it is imperative to contact an appropriate specialist to undergo an examination and prescribe adequate treatment.

In some cases, swelling of the lower extremities may occur in completely healthy people. But in order to avoid unnecessary risks, it is necessary to seek medical help in time.

Reasons why it swells left leg, there may be many. This can be either cardiac edema of the lower extremities, or specific pathologies associated with diseases of the venous system of the lower extremities, thrombosis or inflammation. Swelling of the left leg is not always the only symptom of the disease, therefore, to make the correct diagnosis and treatment, all accompanying symptoms should be identified. After this, appropriate treatment is prescribed.

Excess fluid

Many people are interested in why the lower extremities swell. One of the main reasons for a healthy person may be excess water in the body.

Pathology occurs during hot weather. If a person has used huge amount water, having previously dined on something salty, the liquid will certainly linger in the body. As a result, the heart can no longer cope with the blood that stagnates in the legs.

Stagnation can also occur due to large body weight. If you had to face such a “phenomenon,” then it’s time to give a decisive fight to the extra kilos. Sometimes stagnation can occur due to prolonged sitting or standing. If stagnation occurs, then in order to avoid risks, you should consult a qualified specialist.

Pregnancy

Often, the causes of swelling of the lower extremities can be explained by changes in the body due to pregnancy. Most pregnant ladies are faced with such a “phenomenon” as swelling of the left leg, which disappears very quickly. It's quite simple to explain why this happens.

In most cases, edema of a pregnant lady can occur due to the pressure of the uterus on the veins that are located in the pelvic cavity. If swelling occurs due to excessive consumption of salt by a pregnant lady, then the only thing that should be done is to harmonize the diet.

It may be that the cause of edema lies in the progression of gestosis. This is true for the second half of pregnancy. In this case, an increase in pressure (arterial) may be observed, which is often accompanied by convulsions. If the face also swells, then the only thing to do here is to immediately seek the help of an obstetrician-gynecologist.

Use of drugs

Swelling of the legs can be caused by taking strong medications. In particular, the following can contribute to a negative effect on blood circulation and the heart:

• glucocorticoids;
• drugs prescribed for hypertension.

The question of what should be done must be answered by the attending physician. In most cases, the doctor prescribes other medications.

Heart failure

Often the causes of leg swelling are explained by this pathology. It is a syndrome of all kinds of inflammation, atherosclerosis or “ischemia”. This pathology is characterized by specific symptoms:

• swelling of the legs in the afternoon;
• presence of shortness of breath;
• hypertension (sometimes hypotension);
• the presence of compressive painful sensations in the heart area;
• high degree of fatigue.

The answer to the question of what should be done is simple: go to the doctor as soon as possible. If swelling of the lower extremities was caused by heart failure, then treatment includes:

• taking diuretics;
• fight against the “main” pathology;
• performing gymnastic exercises;
• dieting.

Allergic reaction

If swelling of the legs occurs, it may be associated with an autoimmune disease or an allergic reaction. Some allergic pathologies are accompanied by joint damage. The most common are:

• injuries
• infections
• metabolic disorders.

If the cause of swelling of the lower extremities is allergic arthritis, then the pathology quickly disappears. The cause of swelling, accompanied by pain, may be a long stay in a sitting or standing position.

Such swelling can be relieved with the help of potent antiallergic drugs. It is important to seek help from an experienced allergist.

Swelling of the mucous membranes and skin, resulting from contact with allergens, affects not only the face, but also the lower extremities. After taking the medication, the swelling disappears.

Inflammatory diseases

Often the cause of swelling of the legs is the rapid progression of infectious and inflammatory pathology.

Rheumatism

Manifested by joint damage connective tissue and blood vessels of the legs. The main manifestation of this disease is the occurrence of swelling of the lower extremities, which quickly disappear.

Erysipelas

The inflammatory process, provoked by streptococci, in most cases affects the legs. The swelling is accompanied by fairly clear painful red spots. Treatment is carried out using potent antibacterial agents. If you do not seek help in a timely manner, they develop serious complications.

Osteomyelitis

A bone infectious-inflammatory process, accompanied by swelling of the right or left leg, is characterized by severe pain. Often, pain in the limb is provoked by impaired motor activity. This pathology is characterized by the appearance of a high temperature in the patient. Well-being worsens even without timely medical care complications often arise.

Infectious arthritis

The most severe pathology that causes swelling of the legs is arthritis. This disease is characterized by redness of the skin and the appearance of severe pain. Movements become difficult, the patient's body temperature rises.

Ankle swelling

There is hardly a person today who has never encountered such a “phenomenon” as ankle swelling. Modern doctors highlight following reasons where ankles swell:

• prolonged exposure to a monotonous sitting or standing position
• drinking excess water
• gestation
• sports exercises in shoes that are not suitable for these purposes
• hypertension
• presence of extra kilos
• cardiac pathologies
• renal pathologies
• pathologies associated with venous blood flow
• incorrect functioning of the lymphatic system
• foot injury
• injury to the legs or hip joints.

Only a qualified specialist can correctly answer the question of why swelling of the right or left leg occurs. You shouldn’t delay visiting a doctor. And at home, you can get rid of swelling by raising your legs slightly above the level of your heart.

With edema, fluid may be found in the space between the cells. Most often this occurs with heart and kidney diseases. What are the causes of leg swelling, and how can you get rid of them?

For what reason does swelling occur?

Swelling of the legs is a common complaint of patients when visiting a doctor. With swelling, it is often discovered that one leg is larger than the other. The legs do not always swell due to any disease. This can happen to a healthy person too. One lower limb may swell when drinking large amounts of liquid. Swelling of the foot can be a consequence of prolonged static stress. This occurs when walking or standing for a long time. Swelling can be mild or pronounced. In the first case, a slight swelling of the leg is detected.

If your leg swells, this is only a manifestation of the disease. This pathology can occur with the following diseases and pathological conditions:

• kidney diseases (glomerulonephritis, amyloidosis, renal failure);
• heart failure;
• varicose veins;
• violation of lymph outflow;
• elephantiasis;
• thrombophlebitis of the legs;
• rheumatism;
• allergic reactions;
• arthritis;
• osteomyelitis;
• traumatic leg injury;
• hypertension;
• alcoholism;
• diabetes mellitus

If one leg or both legs swells, the reason may lie in the use of certain medications (hypotensive drugs, hormones, glucocorticoids). There are a number of predisposing factors, the presence of which increases the likelihood of edema syndrome. They include being overweight, having a sedentary lifestyle, staying in an uncomfortable position for long periods of time, and wearing ill-fitting shoes. Physiological causes include pregnancy.

When carrying a child, the vessels in the pelvic area are often compressed, which leads to swelling of the leg. Pregnant women often crave salty foods. As you know, salt promotes fluid retention in the body.

Swelling due to lymph stagnation

Why is there leg swelling? This condition is the main symptom of elephantism (elephantiasis, lymphedema). The disease is caused by a violation of lymph outflow. The latter is a colorless liquid that contains many lymphocytes. Lymph flows through lymphatic vessels from bottom to top and flows into the superior vena cava. The main purpose of lymph is return various substances(electrolytes, proteins, tissue metabolic products, toxic substances) from tissues into the blood for subsequent removal from the body. With elephantiasis, lymph stagnation is observed.

In the congenital form of the disease, swelling initially occurs in the foot area. The process then spreads to the hips. In the acquired form, the swelling spreads from top to bottom. In most cases, the swelling is unilateral. Upon palpation, after pressing on the skin, a hole remains that does not level out for a long time. This is an important distinguishing feature from cardiac and renal edema.

Pathology of the heart and kidneys

Edema syndrome is a sign of heart failure. With this pathology, stagnation occurs in the systemic circulation. Blood accumulates in the blood vessels, causing them to stretch. Against the background of all this, the permeability of the vessel wall increases, and blood rushes into the tissue. Heart failure in the absence of proper treatment is a consequence of cardiosclerosis, cardiomyopathy, pericarditis, amyloidosis, congenital heart defects, and rheumatism. Cardiac edema has the following features:

• form on the ankles, after which they spread upward;
• cold on palpation;
• have a bluish tint;
• dense;
• painless;
• arise gradually.

Edema can be a manifestation of renal pathology. Common cause is glomerulonephritis. Edema is a sign of amyloidosis and renal failure. With these diseases, the filtration process is disrupted. Swelling in the legs due to kidney disease is diagnosed only in severe cases. At the same time, the swelling is mobile and warm. They can appear unexpectedly and also disappear unexpectedly.

Diagnosis and treatment

Treatment of swelling in the leg is carried out after the underlying disease has been established. Diagnostics includes interviewing the patient, external examination, palpation of the lower extremities, blood and urine tests, sound Dopplerography, electrocardiography, ultrasound of the heart and kidneys, angiography of the vessels of the legs. If your leg hurts and swells due to thrombophlebitis, you may need surgical treatment. If thrombophlebitis is associated with infection, antibiotics are prescribed. For cardiac edema, treatment is aimed at the underlying disease.

Thus, swelling of the lower limb is a reason to consult a doctor.

Possible causes of swelling in one leg

Edema occurs as a result of fluid accumulation in the intercellular space. This can happen by various reasons, for example, eating a lot of salty foods or drinking alcohol. But in this case, the swelling spreads to both legs at once and goes away very quickly. What can swelling of one leg indicate?

Reasons

In a healthy person, swelling of the legs can be bilateral. Swelling of one lower limb is already a sign of the development of a disease. And many diseases can be accompanied by such a symptom, for example:

• amyloidosis;
• varicose veins;
• elephantiasis;
• thrombophlebitis.

Swelling of one leg can be associated not only with serious pathological processes in the body, but also with injury. If you have previously been kicked or fallen, it is likely that internal hemorrhage and soft tissue damage occurred during this event. But in this case, the swelling is usually accompanied by the presence of a hematoma.

Sprained ligaments also cause swelling. In this case, the swelling does not spread to the entire limb, but is localized only in the area of ​​the injury. Main symptoms: swelling, painful sensations, limited mobility.

Leg swelling is also observed in pregnant women. The reason for this is the pressure of the uterus on the vessels, which leads to poor circulation, blood stagnation and the appearance of edema. Depending on which side (left or right) the greatest pressure occurs, swelling will be observed on that side.

But if this symptom is observed constantly and becomes more pronounced over time, then this indicates pathologies that require urgent treatment.

Lymph stagnation

Often, unilateral edema is a symptom of elephantism, that is, elephantiasis or lymphederma. Such conditions arise against the background of stagnation of lymph in the body, which is a colorless liquid circulating through the vessels. It washes the walls of blood vessels from various substances and promotes them rapid elimination from the body.

In these diseases, this process is disrupted and lymph stagnation occurs. And this, in turn, leads to hyperplasia of the skin and fatty tissue. This condition can be congenital or acquired. It is manifested by the following symptoms:

• unilateral leg swelling;
• pain in the limb, feeling of heaviness;
• stiffness of movement;
• increased volume of lymph nodes;
• changes in the skin - it thickens, dark blue spots, ulcers and cracks appear on it.

If elephantism is congenital, then swelling first occurs in the foot area. After this, it gradually begins to spread to the entire leg. If this disease has been acquired, then swelling occurs first in the thigh area, gradually spreading down the entire limb.

Other factors

If only one leg is swollen, this may indicate a ruptured Baker's cyst. This condition is characterized by protrusion joint capsule with a knee. If a person has joint diseases, the size of this cyst increases and it ruptures. As a result, the fluid accumulated in it spreads throughout the leg, causing it to become significantly enlarged.

It should be noted that swelling of one leg may be associated with the already mentioned joint diseases, for example, arthritis or arthrosis. These diseases also include bursitis, gout, osteoporosis, etc.

They occur for various reasons: injuries, hypothermia, autoimmune disorders, alcohol abuse, and so on. If these diseases are not treated, there is a risk of them spreading to the second leg or upper limbs.

These joint diseases are often characterized by limited mobility of the limb in which the joint is inflamed, crunching and pain during severe physical exertion.

Swelling of the leg may be a symptom of an allergic reaction, for example, to insect vinegar. In this case, swelling can be localized in various parts of the limb - calves, feet, ankles, and so on.

If the integrity of the skin on the leg was damaged and after that they were not treated with anything, there is a risk of infection entering the wound, which can also cause swelling. In this case, the skin takes on a red tint and becomes hot to the touch. If no action is taken, an abscess may develop.

Swelling in one limb may be associated with a tumor in the buttock or thigh. Its growth leads to compression of nearby tissues and vessels, which leads to impaired blood circulation and lymph outflow, resulting in swelling.

In any case, the appearance of swelling in only one leg should alert a person. After all, this symptom indicates the development serious pathologies that require immediate treatment. Therefore, when it occurs, it is necessary to visit a doctor as quickly as possible and determine the cause of its occurrence.

Why does one leg swell?

Most common reasons

Often, when visiting a doctor, a patient complains of swelling of the legs. But this symptom does not always indicate the presence of a serious deviation. The phenomenon also occurs in completely healthy people, if they have consumed a lot of liquid or have been in a static forced position for a long time, the leg or both may swell during prolonged walking. Usually, in the normal state of the body, there is slight swelling in the ankle area, which quickly disappears after proper rest.

If a person constantly swells one leg, then the reasons may lie in the improper functioning of the organs. The following diseases are characterized by swelling:

• kidney disease with the development of failure - nephritis, amyloidosis;
• pathology of the heart muscle and heart failure;
• varicose veins of the lower extremities;
• impaired lymphatic drainage, including elephantiasis;
• ankle arthritis or knee joint;
• thrombophlebitis;
• rheumatism;
• osteomyelitis;
• sprain;
• allergy;
• hypertension;
• diabetes mellitus

There is another reason why the leg swells. Sometimes swelling of one or both lower extremities is observed during treatment with certain drugs - antihypertensive, hormonal. This symptom develops especially often in people who are overweight.

The problem appears when there is a lack of physical activity, constant standing, or wearing low-quality and uncomfortable shoes.

Often, swelling becomes a companion to pregnancy. This happens due to physiological changes in the body of women during this period, but it can also be a sign of trouble.

Lymphostasis

Sometimes one limb becomes greatly enlarged due to impaired outflow of lymphatic fluid, which is observed in a number of diseases, including elephantiasis. Other reasons for this may be burns or erysipelas. Lymph in the human body performs the important function of transporting various toxic substances and metabolic reaction products from tissues to the blood. When lymphedema develops, the skin and fatty tissue the affected area begins to thicken.

The patient has:

• severe swelling;
• pain;
• heaviness and distension;
• roughening of the skin;
• lymphadenopathy;
• increase in limb volume and impaired joint mobility;
• dryness and cracks in the skin, sometimes the appearance of ulcerations;
• discoloration in the affected area and the appearance of spots.

There are two types of elephantiasis. In the congenital form of this pathology, swelling of one or two legs from the foot is noted, spreading upward. The acquired version of the disease begins with swelling from above, which continues downward. Swelling caused by lymph stagnation is soft to the touch. When pressing, a hole remains in this place for a long time. This makes it possible to differentiate the same condition in case of disruption of the heart and kidneys.

Cardiac and renal failure

The occurrence of swelling in the area of ​​two or one leg may be a sign of heart failure. The organ cannot cope with pumping blood, and stagnation of blood circulation develops. Gradually, the peripheral vessels expand under the pressure of the increasing volume of blood, and its liquid part begins to exit into the tissues. Cardiac failure is formed as a result of rheumatism, congenital and acquired heart defects, cardiomyopathy, severe myocarditis, and cardiosclerotic changes.

Edema with this pathology has its own characteristics:

• appear in the ankle area;
• tend to spread upward;
• upon palpation they feel dense and cold;
• painless;
• arise and increase slowly.

If there is a deviation in the functioning of the kidneys, edema may also develop. Often, failure of these organs develops against the background of glomerulonephritis or amyloidosis. Filtration disturbances begin, toxic substances circulating in the blood poison the body. Swelling in kidney diseases is warm and loose. They appear quite quickly and disappear just as quickly.

How to treat

Before starting treatment, the doctor must determine the cause of the swelling. Diagnostics includes analysis of patient complaints, objective examination and palpation. After this, the results of laboratory tests are studied and additional diagnostics. Usually they do a urine and blood test (including biochemical), cardiogram, ultrasound of the kidneys and heart, Doppler sonography, angiography of blood vessels in the legs.

Treatment for a swollen leg usually consists of the following:

1. For varicose veins, the patient is recommended to wear special jersey, take venotonics and blood thinners in tablets, injections and ointments. NSAIDs help with inflammation and pain. In extreme cases of the disease, surgery is used.
2. For elephantiasis, physical therapy, special stockings with a high degree of compression, phlebotonics and immunostimulants are used. For such a patient, hardware pneumocompression is successfully used. If the above methods are ineffective, anastomoses are performed to restore outflow.
3. If the reason becomes allergic reaction, then the patient is recommended to take antihistamines and the use of compresses with anti-inflammatory effects.
4. Kidney pathology is treated with glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants. To remove excess liquid diuretics are used.
5. Swelling in heart failure is treated with glycosides and diuretics.

Traditional treatment

For a person with swollen legs, traditional healers recommend using, in addition to standard treatment, a decoction of herbs. To prepare it, you should put one large spoonful of birch buds, horsetail, knotweed and flax seed in a small container. After mixing, add 500 ml of boiling water to the mixture and bring to a boil over heat. After this, the decoction should be cooled and taken 100 ml before breakfast.

The healing herbs included in this collection will help not only eliminate swelling in the leg, but also improve microcirculation and increase the tone of the vascular wall.

Edema that appears should be taken seriously, since it can be a symptom of serious abnormalities in the functioning of many organs and systems. Therefore, if even slight pastiness appears in the shin or knee area, you should immediately consult a specialist.

Why is my right leg swelling?

Edema is a concomitant symptom of some diseases, as well as a constant companion of injuries and, very often, pregnancy. Its formation occurs due to excessive accumulation of fluid in the intercellular space of tissues and organs.

Swelling of the legs causes especially severe discomfort. They can occur for various reasons: from heart failure to limb thrombosis.

What diseases can cause swelling in one leg?

Edema right leg may indicate the presence of certain diseases, including:

Venous insufficiency and varicose veins

Impaired blood outflow with varicose veins and venous insufficiency provokes an increase in pressure in vessels of different sizes. When the pressure in the vessels becomes too high, fluid leaks out into the surrounding tissues and the person experiences swelling.

Thrombosis

The mechanism of edema in this case is approximately the same as in the previous one. Due to the appearance of a blood clot in a vein, the blood flow is disrupted and the pressure in the vessel increases, as a result of which the volume of fluid in the surrounding tissues increases, that is, the leg swells.

In this case, swelling can be observed both on the entire limb and on part of it, for example, below the knee and/or in the ankle area.

Joint diseases: inflammation or injury

Local swelling in this case occurs in the ankle and knee area due to the accumulation of synovial fluid in the joint cavity, which in normal conditions promotes painless movement of the joint.

Lymphedema

With this disease, the absorption of lymph by the lymphatic capillaries is impaired. As a result of the accumulation of fluid in the tissue, the leg swells severely and completely.

Heart failure

With weak contractility myocardium, blood is not pumped well enough, and blood stagnation occurs in the lower extremities. Further, the mechanism for the formation of leg edema is the same as in previous cases - the fluid from the vessel partially exits into the connective tissue.

Kidney failure

In this case, the right leg usually swells. Due to the insufficient ability of the kidneys to pass fluid, it accumulates in the connective tissue of the leg.

According to doctors' observations, the right leg swells more than the left due to kidney dysfunction.

Hypothyroidism

This syndrome occurs due to a decrease in thyroid hormone levels. Among the symptoms of the disease high content mucopolysaccharides in the tissues, which provokes fluid retention and edema.

Causes of unilateral leg swelling not related to diseases

In addition to diseases, swelling of the right leg can be caused by non-pathological causes:

Eating salty foods, wearing tight clothes and shoes

Addiction to salty foods and alcohol leads to disruption of the distribution of fluid in the body and disruptions in the excretory system, and therefore the legs, where there are many large vessels, swell.

Wearing tight clothes and uncomfortable shoes threaten to compress blood vessels and impair blood flow - and these are common causes of leg swelling.

Sitting in the wrong position

The “leg-to-leg” position favored by women, as well as the cross-legged position, is fraught with the appearance of swelling of the lower extremities. In this position, the veins are pinched, the outflow of blood is disrupted, fluid enters the connective tissue, and after a working day in the office, the leg, of course, swells in the evening.

Carrying a child

Pregnancy is rarely complete without swelling of the legs. In the last trimester, their appearance is considered normal: the growing uterus puts pressure on the veins of the small pelvis, as a result of which blood circulation is disrupted and the legs swell.

Important: the causes of varicose veins can also be pathological - a woman develops varicose veins, nephropathy, eclampsia or other diseases. Therefore, during pregnancy you should not neglect visiting doctors.

Use of medications containing hormones

Taking hormonal medications, contraceptives and certain medications can also result in swelling of the lower extremities. Typically, side effects of these medications include possible varicose veins.

These medications should be used with caution if you are prone to thrombosis. Hormonal pills (for both women and men) usually give the “effect” of swelling in the right leg.

What to do if swelling does not subside or recurs?

If one leg or both swells, often and severely, unpleasant sensations are observed for a long time - you should not wait until it “goes away on its own”.

Contact your therapist first. Having found out the circumstances surrounding the edema, the doctor will refer you to a cardiologist, nephrologist, rheumatologist or other to a specialist.

A visit to the doctor is mandatory, because swelling is not something to joke about. They can result in serious consequences, including gangrene and limb amputation.

Why does one leg swell and how to treat it?

Among the causes of swelling of the left leg (or right limb) there are both external factors not associated with diseases, and internal malfunctions in the body. However, upon seeing similar pathology You should not panic: the problem does not pose a mortal danger, and it is easy to identify the features of its occurrence after a short diagnosis.

Types and main causes of swelling of one leg

Recognizing swelling of the left leg is easier than determining its type. For an experienced therapist similar process is not difficult. There are several types of edema, the identification of which will help in further identifying the causes of their formation:

• mechanical - appear after injuries, as a result of pregnancy, as well as in the case of tumor formation in different parts bodies;
• hydremic – appear in kidney diseases and are associated with fluid stagnation;
• stagnant - arise due to problems in the capillaries and blood vessels;
• cachectic - occur due to dehydration or severe exhaustion of the body, as a result of heart disease;
• neuropathic – formed as a result of diabetes mellitus or alcoholism;
• allergic – characterized by rapid onset and severe severity.

Identifying the causes and prescribing treatment for swelling of the left leg begins with determining the type of swelling. After this, it is easier for the doctor to establish the correct diagnosis. However, edema does not always form as a result of a disease. There are specific reasons swelling of one leg that does not require complex therapy:

• increased load – standing work, heavy physical activity;
• formed flat feet;
• wrong drinking regime and excessive use of liquids before bedtime;
• problems with metabolic processes in the body;
• the habit of always sitting with your legs crossed;
• sitting too low on a chair while working, or using soft seats;
• incorrect shoes - too high a heel or flat sole;
• excess weight;
• ankle or toe injury;
• pregnancy (but swelling of one limb rarely spreads without pathological processes).

All causes not related to organ diseases can be easily corrected through lifestyle changes. However, some symptoms may hide serious illnesses, such as diabetes.

Diseases that cause swelling of one limb

Among the causes of swelling of the right or left leg, there are also more serious components - diseases. The most common of them:

• varicose veins, swelling is at first barely noticeable, then intensifies with prolonged standing on the legs;
• pathology cardiovascular system– any problems with the heart and blood vessels, including hypertension, can lead to sudden swelling of one limb;
• kidney disease - swelling can be very severe, often affecting both limbs. However, in some cases, swelling of one leg may occur, accompanied by darkening of the skin around the eyes and a change in urine character;
• intestinal diseases - swelling is accompanied by diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms;
• “elephantitis” disease – lymphatic drainage in the epidermis worsens, metabolism is disrupted;
• diseases of the thyroid gland - swelling can be elastic, affecting the lower parts of the legs. Additional swelling of the body, lethargy and drowsiness are possible;
• thrombophlebitis - unlike varicose veins, it is always accompanied by a feeling of heat in the veins, redness and pain along its location;
• blood clots in the veins - blocked ducts prevent the heart from receiving required quantity blood, its circulation is disrupted;
• osteomyelitis is a disease of bones and joints in which an acute inflammatory process occurs.

If, for example, your right leg is swollen, its color has changed greatly and sensitivity is impaired, you need to consult a doctor. Some diseases involve the presence of several complications at once, which leads to severe edema and even gangrene of the lower extremities.

Associated symptoms and diagnosis of pathology

If one leg is swollen, but additional symptoms appear, this almost always requires contacting a doctor:

• pain and shortness of breath – possible heart failure;
• temperature above 39 degrees is a sign of the onset of inflammation;
• high blood pressure in a pregnant woman;
• severe joint pain;
• convulsions.

Severe morning swelling of the face and eyes can indicate kidney problems.

Diagnostic stages

Diagnosis of diseases begins in the therapist's office. Then, based on the results of the examination, he will give a referral to one of the highly specialized specialists. To identify the problem, you need to undergo an ultrasound, x-ray, lymphoscintigraphy (examination of vessels and nodes), in some cases you need to undergo an MRI. Additionally, blood and urine tests are prescribed. If heart disease is suspected, a cardiogram is performed.

What is the danger of swelling in one leg?

The reasons why swelling of one leg can be so dangerous are hidden in possible diseases heart, kidney, endocrine system. If one leg swells constantly, you should consult a doctor. Otherwise, the person will experience progression of the disease that caused the pathology.

Signs of deterioration include: weight gain, swelling under the eyes, frequent attacks of hypertension, severe pain and inability to move normally.

Even the simplest swelling caused by injury, if left untreated, can become chronic form. Sometimes swelling develops into elephantiasis, lymphatic drainage is impaired and varicose veins develop.

First aid for detecting edema

Before using remedies to relieve swelling, you must provide first aid to the patient (or yourself). However, they are effective only in the absence serious illnesses– because of the heat, in the morning, because of tension.

First you need to free your feet from clothes and shoes, wash them with cool water and try to relax. You can then use a relaxing cream to relieve swelling in your right or left leg. They apply it massage movements. After this, you need to rest for about 20 minutes, placing your feet slightly above head level.

After the first procedures, more serious treatment begins - the use of compresses and baths, as well as other traditional medicine recipes. If there are diseases, the doctor prescribes medications to relieve pathological swelling.

Which doctor should I contact?

If swelling appears on one leg, you can first consult a therapist. Then they will give a referral to a cardiologist, nephrologist or phlebologist, depending on the type of edema and accompanying symptoms. If thyroid disease is suspected, they are referred to an endocrinologist.

Treatment methods

There is no single option when it comes to treating edema. Therapy should be approached comprehensively, including all the remedies recommended by the doctor:

1. Therapeutic massage. The therapist will show you how to do it correctly to relieve swelling.
2. Gymnastics. A specialist will select a set of exercises.
3. Baths and rubbing. Mainly used folk recipes, herbal decoctions, sea salt.
4. Complete rest. Without this component, quick and high-quality treatment is impossible.

After determining the cause of swelling of the left or right leg, the doctor will prescribe treatment. In complex therapy, medications are necessarily used. To help cope with swelling:

• phlebotonics are prescribed - drugs that strengthen veins and blood vessels (Eskuzan, Venarus, Detralex, Troxevasin);
• use anticoagulants - blood thinners (Aspirin, Lyoton);
• in some cases, medications are prescribed to improve heart function by stimulating pumping function;
• diuretics are prescribed as part of complex treatment edema and varicose veins;
• antiplatelet agents - used to cleanse the blood of cholesterol and plaques - are prescribed as needed.

Additionally, compression garments are used to retain fluid. For swelling caused by joint diseases, select orthopedic shoes or insoles.

Alternative remedies for relieving swelling in the left leg

The use of traditional medicine in the treatment of swelling of one limb is effective and appropriate. The methods can be used both in combination with main therapy and as maintenance treatment:

1. Birch leaf wraps. You need to take cotton rags - old sheets or towels, pieces of fabric - they are used to form bags. You can use old pillowcases. Birch leaves are poured into them and placed on the feet. They wrap themselves well and wait for their limbs to start sweating. After about 2-3 hours, the pillowcases are removed.
2. Compress and light massage. You can use a decoction of any suitable herb for a compress. Soak cotton paper in it and wrap it around the problematic leg. Then they put on the bag and wrap it up. You need to leave it on all night.
3. Turpentine. Pure turpentine mixed with 2 parts of warm castor oil will help with swelling on one leg. Wipe the skin, put on high socks and leave overnight. Any swelling should go down overnight.
4. Sea salt. Pour warm water into a basin and add about sea salt. The foot is placed for 30 minutes, the procedure is completed with rinsing and a light massage.
5. Peppermint. Add 3-4 drops of mint ether into cool water and place your foot in the bath.

A separate group includes medicinal herbs for eliminating edema. They can be taken both internally and externally in the form of compresses.

Herbs to treat swelling

Among the popular herbs for relieving swelling caused by poor lifestyle, injuries and other factors not associated with serious illnesses internal organs, highlight:

1. Knapweed. Use 1 tsp. blue cornflower and 1 cup boiling water. You need to infuse the product all night, strain in the morning and 2 tbsp. l. taken before every meal. Not suitable for pregnant women!
2. Flax. Seeds and inflorescences are used - a mixture of 3 tbsp. l. pour 1 liter of boiling water and cool. You need to take 2 tbsp. l. You can add a little honey, as the product is bitter.
3. Cherry. Use stalks that you harvest yourself. Take 2 tbsp of boiling water for 250 ml. l. dry feet and leave for a minute. When the mixture has cooled, take 1-2 spoons. You should not drink if you have liver disease!
4. Pharmaceutical chamomile. A sedative that, in the form of a strong decoction, relieves swelling well. Pour 250 ml of boiling water over 12 inflorescences and cool. You need to take 1 tbsp. l. before eating.
5. Calendula. A well-known medicinal herb that relieves swelling well. Take 2 tsp. for 500 ml of boiling water, you can add 1 tsp. cornflower flowers. Accepted at sedentary work, wearing high heels. You can drink before every meal.

Treatment with medicinal herbs should not last longer than 1 month, as addiction may occur. If folk remedies are used as part of complex therapy, alternate them with each other.

Elimination of edema due to varicose veins

If swelling on the right or left leg appears as a result of varicose veins, then you can get rid of it using additional methods and medications. The key recommendation is to use moderate physical activity without much involvement of the legs. Yoga asanas are ideal for combating varicose veins.

You cannot engage in power sports with sudden jumps and jerks.

Swimming and water sports are great for reducing swelling caused by varicose veins. However, you can’t do without drugs to relieve pathology. In general, they are similar to what is used to treat edema from other diseases.

All medications are taken strictly according to the course, and the results of treatment are assessed by the doctor after repeated examinations and tests.

Regardless of the reasons for the accumulation of fluid, doctors recommend treating swelling of one leg using light physical activity. All exercises can be done directly on the bed or on the floor at home:

• “scissors” - perfectly stimulate blood flow - straight leg swings;
• “bicycle” - lying on a hard sofa, their legs make movements as if they were riding a bicycle;
• “birch” - the legs rise up, you can start with the support against the wall, the back is supported by the hands in the lumbar region;
• skiing, running and cycling - maximum acceptable types high activity sports.

Prevention of swelling

To prevent your right or left leg from swelling and swelling from time to time, you need to follow simple rules of prevention. They will not help get rid of kidney disease, heart disease and varicose veins, but they will facilitate the process of possible treatment.

You should wear comfortable low-heeled shoes and avoid putting excessive strain on your feet.

Doctors advise normalizing your diet, eliminating large amounts of sweets, fats and salty foods. It is also useful for prevention to engage in moderate physical activity, perform therapeutic exercises and foot massage.

If swelling occurs in the morning, then in the evening you need to prevent excessive fluid intake. A cup of coffee, one of the best diuretic products, will help remove excess water.

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Causes and methods of treating swelling in one leg

There can be many reasons for swelling in one leg. Some of them are natural and do not pose a danger to humans, while others are the consequence of serious diseases. Treatment of pathology should be carried out taking into account the factors that led to this condition. In many cases, doctors recommend using traditional medicine recipes.

Why does edema occur in healthy people?

Even a completely healthy person may experience swelling in one leg. This happens due to the following reasons:

• Drinking large amounts of liquid. The lower limbs will swell if you drink a lot of water in combination with salty foods.
• Hot weather. With a significant increase in air temperature, the human body turns on defense mechanisms to prevent overheating. Therefore, in the summer, many people experience minor swelling, which gradually disappears on their own.
• Obesity. Large body weight creates extra stress on the cardiovascular system and kidneys. Therefore, the human body cannot fully cope with the elimination of fluid.
• Staying in a sitting or standing position for a long time, as a result of which blood circulation deteriorates. In this case, it is the stagnation of blood in the lower extremities that causes swelling.
• Pregnancy. The causes of swelling of the lower leg of one leg can be compression of the veins by the fetus, changes in hormonal levels, which lead to fluid retention in the body. If the swelling occurs suddenly and develops rapidly, preeclampsia may be suspected. This is a dangerous condition that requires prompt medical attention.
• Taking certain medications. The most common cause of edema is antihypertensive drugs, glucocorticoids. If swelling is detected in the lower limb, you should consult a doctor to prescribe more suitable medications.
• Injuries. A sprain, fracture, or dislocation causes severe swelling in the ankle area, which is accompanied by pain.

Pathological causes of swelling of one leg

If one leg swells greatly and becomes larger than the other, some pathologies can be suspected. Most often, after a qualified examination, the following diseases are discovered:

• Heart failure. Swelling usually occurs in the afternoon and is accompanied by shortness of breath, increased fatigue, and tightness in the chest.
• Varicose veins The presence of edema on the lower leg of one leg can be caused by a violation of the venous circulation. This disease is accompanied by the appearance of deflated veins, pain, and changes in skin color.
• Thrombophlebitis. Ankle swelling is most often caused by the formation of a blood clot in a vein, which leads to the development inflammatory process. Thrombophlebitis is considered a serious disease that can be treated conservatively and surgically.
• Lymphedema. It is characterized by the accumulation of lymph in the tissues and provokes a significant increase in the size of the limbs.
• Myxedema. Develops against the background of endocrine disorders. In addition to swelling of the calf, a change in the patient’s face and an increase in the size of the tongue are observed.
• Erysipelas. It is provoked by streptococcus. As the pathology develops, the ankles swell, red spots appear on the surface of the skin, and pain develops.
• Osteomyelitis. A disease of infectious-inflammatory origin, which is also complicated by fever, severe pain, and impaired coordination of movements.
• Rheumatism. Accompanied by damage to the bone and connective tissue of the foot and blood vessels. Rheumatism is characterized by rapid disappearance of edema.
• Infectious arthritis. It is characterized by redness of the skin, the development of pain, stiffness of movement, fever, and swelling of the tissues.

If swelling is detected in the lower limb, you must consult a doctor to determine the causes of the pathology. Based on the diagnosis, the treatment method is determined. In most cases, patients should adhere to the following recommendations:

• It is necessary to reduce salt intake. This is especially true in the summer or if there are related health problems.
• It is advisable to limit fluid intake (especially in the evening).
• Drinking alcohol in any form or quantity is strictly prohibited.
• After a hard day, it is recommended to lie down and put your feet on a hill. This will improve blood flow and prevent the development of edema.
• It is necessary to choose the right shoes with a comfortable last. Women should preferably wear flat or low-heeled shoes.
• To prevent edema, it is recommended to do special exercises- walk on toes, rotate your feet. Massage and regular physical activity are no less useful.

At frequent appearance edema not associated with serious pathologies, you can use special ointments- Venitan, Essavan gel. They improve blood circulation and eliminate pain along with swelling.

Treatment with folk remedies for external action

To get rid of swelling, you can use special compresses or baths that as soon as possible relieve swelling. If there is a problem, traditional medicine recommends paying attention to the following recipes:

1. Application of oils. Warm compresses will help remove swelling. To carry out the treatment procedure, mix olive and camphor oil. Rub the surface of the ankle with this mixture, then wrap it with cotton cloth and a woolen scarf. It is recommended to apply the compress in the evening and keep it overnight.
2. Herbal baths. In a small container you need to mix 30 g of mint, chamomile and birch leaves. The herbs are poured with a liter of boiling water and left for an hour. For a foot bath, add the required amount of warm water to the liquid. The temperature of the resulting mixture should not exceed 38 ºС. The duration of the procedure is about 10 minutes.
3. Baths to relieve fatigue. If the cause of swelling is excessive load on the lower limbs, this procedure is ideal. For a bath, dissolve 2 tablespoons of dry mustard powder in 2 liters of warm water. Keep your feet in this mixture for no more than 15 minutes. After the procedure, the limbs are doused with cool water and a massage is performed to consolidate the positive effect.
4. Contrast baths. You need to take two containers of water - cold and warm. The legs are lowered into them one by one and held for 1 minute. Such contrast baths will strengthen blood vessels and relieve fatigue and swelling. To enhance the effect, it is recommended to add a little sea salt to each container.
5. Potato-beetroot compress. To carry out the procedure, fresh and peeled vegetables are grated on a fine grater. The potato-beet mixture is applied to the problem area, wrapped in cellophane and a terry towel. Keep the compress for 20 minutes. It is recommended to repeat the procedure daily.

Treatment with oral medications

Very often, external treatment in the presence of edema is not enough. To eliminate the problem, traditional healers recommend taking specially prepared remedies:

1. Flaxseed decoction. You need to take two spoons of plant material and fill it with 520 ml of water. The resulting mixture is put on fire and boiled for 13 minutes. Cover the container with the decoction with a lid and leave for another 50 minutes. The medicine is taken four times a day, 130 ml. The duration of treatment is from a week to a month.
2. Juices. You need to mix 120 ml cucumber and carrot juice. Squeeze one lemon into this mixture. This cocktail can be drunk three times a day, after diluting a small amount water.
3. Infusion of birch leaves. To prepare the medicine, use 50 g of plant material, which is poured with 530 ml of boiling water. The leaves are infused for 5 hours, after which they are filtered. The resulting liquid is taken 150 ml three times a day until the swelling disappears completely.
4. Bean infusion. To prepare the medicine, use dry crushed leaves in the amount of 1 tablespoon. Add 400 ml of boiling water to them. After 1 hour, the liquid can be filtered and taken 120 ml 3-4 times a day.

The presented recipes are excellent in combating edema in healthy people. In the presence of the diseases described above, the use of any folk remedies must be agreed with the doctor.

Many people are familiar with the phenomenon of leg swelling. The main reason for the appearance of this unpleasant condition is the excess fluid that occurs in the lower extremities. This problem is widespread all over the world. Both men and women face it equally. Both the person who has swelling in his left leg and the one who has swelling in his right leg are primarily interested in the reasons for the appearance of this phenomenon.

Currently, several types of edema are known:

• Hydraemic edema - their occurrence is associated with accumulation in the tissues of the extremities excess liquid. Kidney disease is the main cause of this condition.
• Cachectic edema - they appear when the body is in the stage of exhaustion. Another reason for their occurrence is diseases of the cardiovascular system.
• Congestive edema - their formation occurs as a result of vascular permeability. Another reason for their appearance is a decrease in protein levels in the blood. In addition, a decrease in pressure in the capillaries can also be a consequence of the appearance of this type of edema.
• Mechanical edema - appears as a consequence of injuries received by a person. With tumors, the likelihood of their occurrence is also high. In addition, similar conditions are often observed during pregnancy.
• Neuropathic edema - the main cause of its occurrence is diabetes mellitus. In addition, their occurrence can also occur with alcoholism.
• Allergic edema is a deep skin edema.

Causes of swelling

When the right leg swells, it is impossible to give a definite answer as to why this happens. The main cause of edema is the accumulation of fluid in tissue spaces and organs. In addition, there are other reasons leading to this painful condition.

• Drinking large amounts of liquid quite often leads to swelling.
• If a person has a metabolic disorder, this can also lead to edema. If you tend to cross your legs while sitting, you are more likely to get swelling.
• Sitting for a long time on seats that are too soft or low can also lead to swelling.
• If you are wondering why your right leg is swollen at the ankle, the answer may be that you are overweight. If you suffer from obesity, then you should pay special attention to losing weight.
• Swelling can also occur in the case of varicose blood vessels.
• Another reason for the appearance of this condition is disturbances in the functioning of the heart.
• Edema can also be caused by a person having kidney problems.
• A disease such as acute thrombophlebitis of the deep and superficial veins can also lead to swelling of the limbs.

Other reasons that can lead to edema include an allergic reaction, burns and immunological diseases.

Treatment of swollen legs

When the right leg swells, then in this case, as in any other situation, it is necessary to carry out treatment. It consists of doing exercises. They are simple, but quite effective for frequent swelling.

• One of the exercises is as follows: you need to stand on your toes and walk like this for several minutes.
• Another exercise involves performing rotational movements from right to left and vice versa.

In addition to exercises to relieve swelling, sufficient effective means There are tinctures and massage.

To prepare one of the products you will need castor oil and turpentine. First you need to heat up the castor oil. Then add turpentine (2:1) to it, and then you need to rub your feet with the resulting composition.

Massage with pieces of ice has a great beneficial effect, allowing you to relieve swelling. It is best to use plants and medicinal herbs to make ice. Plants such as sage and mountain arnica flowers are perfect for this. In addition to them, you can use yarrow, navel tincture, eucalyptus and peppermint.

If varicose veins are main reason your swelling, then to cope with it, you need to prepare a compress from steamed elderberry leaves.

Swelling of the extremities can occur for a number of reasons. No one is safe from their appearance. Therefore, as preventative measure After 6 pm you need to drink as little liquid as possible, and during the day you need to set aside time to rest your legs. By massaging your feet and even just stroking them, you will reduce the likelihood of swelling. Salt intake should be kept to a minimum. While sleeping, place a pillow or rolled blanket under your feet.

Swelling is an example of the price a person sometimes pays.

Swelling of the legs affects 8 out of 10 people. This problem is more common among the female population. Men are less susceptible to edema. Distribution directly depends on the characteristics of the hormonal system. Swelling of the legs is a common companion for women during pregnancy. The problem becomes more acute in old age, causing pain and difficulty moving.

A simple truth will allow you to competently approach the issue of swelling. Edema is a symptom recognized as a consequence of diseases. Treatment of edema in isolation from the diseases that give rise to it is the work of Sisyphus. An experienced doctor will begin to look for the causes of swelling.

The main answers to why edema occurs remain common phenomena. This includes poor nutrition, non-compliance with the daily routine, low physical activity, increased pollution environment, prolonged standing. Constant need to walk for a long time.

Edema is easy to recognize. Press the swollen area with your finger and you will see a permanent imprint. Often similar marks are left on the legs by tight clothing - tight stockings or socks. This kind of dents signal the appearance of swelling.

What is behind leg swelling

The nature of the phenomenon is that a pathologically large (sometimes up to 30 kg) amount of fluid accumulates in the tissues of the body, especially in the lower extremities. Venous vessels do not cope with the task of sending blood through the circulation returning to the heart (from the legs up). The valves of the veins malfunction, and venous congestion forms (typical of varicose veins).

Blood settles in the capillaries under the influence of gravity. The system of blood vessels in the body is duplicated by the lymphatic system; if the work is disrupted, edema also forms. Each doctor adheres to his own classification of the origins of the symptom, based on which he makes the final diagnosis. Let's bring full list diseases:

• Kidney failure. Infectious diseases kidney Glomerulonephritis, nephropathy, pyelonephritis. Swelling forms on the legs, face, and around the eyes. Particularly noticeable upon awakening. Goes away after 1-2 hours. Directly depends on the amount of liquid you drink before bed.
• Heart failure. Elderly people are predominantly affected. Severe swelling of a symmetrical nature, bilateral, gradually rising upward. Blood stagnation occurs and blood circulation is disrupted. Subcutaneous fatty tissue and individual organs are often targeted.

Causes of swelling of the left leg only

Edema can be asymmetrical. In contrast to disorders of the cardiovascular system that provoke bilateral swelling, the opposite effect occurs. For example, patients are often interested in the causes of swelling exclusively in the left leg. A separate group of pathologies is known that causes a unilateral phenomenon:

• Varicose veins. Weakening of the elasticity of vascular valves. Dilatation of veins. Gradually, the swelling can progress and turn into an ulcer. It is hereditary.
• Lymphedema. Provokes lymphatic edema. The lymphatic system, duplicating the circulatory system, provides the body's immune defense. Constriction of the lymphatic pathways causes stagnation of lymph.
• Baker's cyst rupture. A protrusion of the joint capsule of the knee is formed. Difficulty with the knees increases the size of the cyst. When the formation bursts, the size of the leg increases significantly. Osteoporosis aggravates the disease. An accumulation of fluid forms at the bottom of the knee joint.

If your left leg swells, you must remember that soon the same will happen to your right leg. Fluid retention is associated with the functioning of blood vessels. This is a general pathology of the body that can manifest itself in individual parts of the body. Blood vessels and lymph nodes are connected into a single network. The body, as it were, signals a global disease of this network. Therefore, the right leg will soon begin to swell. It's a matter of time.

Wrong lifestyle

Edema is not a disease. But it can become a signal of its presence. The reasons for its appearance are based on a simple scheme. The outflow of blood from a vein due to hydrostatic pressure. Prolonged stagnation of blood causes an increase in pressure in the capillaries. Liquid from the vessels is squeezed into the intercellular space, forming edema.

Additional reasons include constantly being on your feet. Especially in the case of using the wrong shoes (high heels). The situation is aggravated by the presence excess weight and flat feet. There is a lot of stress on the legs and veins.

Poor nutrition. Consuming large amounts of salty foods and water retains fluids in the body. In combination with poor metabolism, a disastrous result develops. In conjunction with hormonal imbalances, the picture seems sad: the pain in the legs is getting worse.

Don't get carried away with taking medications. Side effects of the tablets lead to the formation of fluid deposits. Known names: amlodipine, enalapril, minirin, the use of which can cause the risk of swelling of the legs and cosmetic defect. Remember, before taking any medications, you should consult your doctor!

Here are other important reasons that affect health. Constantly straining your legs is dangerous, as complete absence loads. Low level physical activity– low speed of blood movement through the vessels. Stagnant blood increases the level of tissue hydrophilicity. Heat and vasodilation lead to “seasonal” edema.

Injuries often become a catalyst for the onset of symptoms. The injured limb becomes swollen and painful. Movement is disrupted. The swelling usually goes away after recovery.

Sometimes we ourselves, without noticing, worsen the condition of our legs. If you wear stockings or socks with a tight elastic band, pinching of the blood vessels on the leg will occur. Oily creams and antiperspirants are also recognized as accomplices in the formation of leg swelling. Doctors do not advise excessive use of such drugs. By clogging pores, they disrupt hydrodynamic processes in the body.

Seeing a doctor

At the first symptoms of illness, you should definitely consult a doctor. If treatment is not started, the tumor will progress. The swelling will spread to other limbs. Possible:

• Complete or partial loss of the ability to walk.
• There will be swelling under the eyes.
• Cases of increased hypertension will begin.
• A dull pain below the back will make itself felt.
• Sudden weight lifting.
• Increased swelling in the evening.
• Increased pain.

The symptoms of swollen extremities are varied. There is a known case where harmless swelling of the left leg developed into elephantiasis. This is a rare form of the disease. The flow of lymphatic fluid is disrupted. Patients lose the ability to move independently. A red liquid is released from the tumor. Patients experience constant pain.

A small percentage of the symptoms that you may encounter are indicated. You need to see a doctor immediately. A phlebologist specializes in such issues. The first procedure is an ultrasound examination of the legs. After conducting an examination and ultrasound of the deep and superficial veins, assessing the patency, the doctor will determine what causes led to the swelling. High probability that other specialized specialists will be involved in the diagnosis. The disease is complex and often stems from disorders of the cardiovascular system. In order to make an accurate diagnosis, the intervention of doctors from other areas is welcomed.

Sometimes patients encounter unprofessionalism. It is especially unpleasant to meet him in medical circles. An example of a superficial view is given: treating the symptoms, not the cause. The doctor prescribed blood thinning medications. For oncology or congenital factors blood clotting - the patient will need to take medications for life. Diuretics are often prescribed. But these are superficial methods of combating swelling of the legs. Doctors are obliged to thoroughly study the causes of the disease.

In addition to treatment, the doctor is able to advise the correct behavior when dealing with edema. Wear compression garments and comfortable shoes. Limit walking in heels to 2 hours a day. Be sure to stick to your diet: limit your intake of salt and water. Avoid areas with high humidity. Less hard physical labor. Spa treatment possible mineral waters, water procedures, heating pads.

Alternative remedies for relieving swelling of the left leg

We will indicate additional means that will help relieve swelling and are trusted by traditional medicine. Before using the methods, it would be useful to consult a doctor.

1. Treatment with pumpkin juice. It is rich in microelements and vitamins. Removes sodium salts. Eases the load on the heart. Helps with kidney problems. You can add lingonberries or parsley to the juice. Not recommended for gastrointestinal disorders.
2. Treatment with bearberry leaves. Brew with lingonberries and drink throughout the day. One pinch per 250 ml. Helps relieve swelling.
3. Impact on acupuncture points. There are two dimples between the index and middle fingers and between the middle and ring fingers. Put pressure on them. Such acupuncture treatment has a beneficial effect on kidney function.
4. Take multivitamins and magnesium supplements. 200 mg magnesium twice daily.
5. Exercise physical exercise. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, try to get up and walk sometimes. This will improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of edema. A little activity will prevent the occurrence of blood clots. Try to do gymnastics more often.
6. Wipe swollen areas on your feet with toner. Use it in combination with a hot bath. Warm water will relieve pain. Add grapefruit oil to the water, as well as almond oil, olive oil, or a pinch of Epsom salt.

Treatment of leg swelling with massage is very effective. This will improve microcirculation. The massage will straighten the veins. Include swimming and bathing here - water pressure prevents blood vessels from dilating.

One leg is swollen: causes and methods of treatment

Swelling of one leg during pregnancy deserves special attention, since stagnation of fluid in the body during this period can signal dangerous pathological processes. However, only a doctor can understand the essence of the problem and take measures that will not harm the patient and her unborn baby.

Reasons

First, let's figure out why swelling of one leg may occur. The main reasons for this anomaly may be:

1. Staying in one position for a long time - sitting, standing, half-sitting. So, if your right leg hurts and goes numb after flying on an airplane or traveling by car, then there is nothing to worry about. As soon as you change your position, there will be no trace of swelling left.
2. Varicose veins. In this case, the situation is serious, because this pathology can not only lead to bruising and swelling of the lower leg, but also cause severe pain, and not only when walking. Often, such an anomaly develops in women during pregnancy, since during this period a rather intense load is created on the legs. Read more about varicose veins→
3. Excessive salt intake. Another reason why your foot may swell is due to excessive consumption of salt or salty foods. This product tends to retain fluid in the tissues, so swelling of the left or right leg may occur, which usually appears in the late afternoon.
4. Malfunction of the kidneys. Often swelling of the right or left leg is observed in people suffering from chronic renal failure. When the kidneys fail to perform their functions, not only fluid stagnation occurs, but also toxins accumulate in the tissues of the entire body. As a result, not only the lower extremities can swell, but also other parts of the body - arms, face, abdomen.
5. Heart diseases. If the leg swells in the ankle or lower leg area, and the swelling practically does not go away, this may indicate serious problems with heart and blood vessel health. In this case, a persistent increase in blood pressure may occur, headache, dizziness and nausea.
6. Excessive fluid intake. Daily norm water for an adult is 2 liters. If this limit is exceeded, swelling of the lower leg, ankle or foot may occur.
7. Swelling of the limb is often accompanied by pregnancy. In expectant mothers, fluid accumulates in much larger quantities in the tissues, especially if there are abnormalities in the functioning of the kidneys. But there is a more dangerous cause of edema in the lower extremities during pregnancy - gestosis. Late toxicosis is dangerous for both the pregnant woman and the unborn baby. In especially severe cases, this condition leads to the death of both.

Joint pathologies, autoimmune diseases, taking steroid hormones or potent antihypertensive drugs- all this can lead to the formation of edema.

If they do not go away for a long time, but, on the contrary, increase or appear in other parts of the body, you must immediately seek qualified help. You cannot begin treatment without identifying the cause of this deviation. At best, efforts will not be successful, and at worst, they will lead to the spread of the pathological process and the development of unpleasant complications.

Types of edema

Depending on the factor that caused fluid stagnation in the tissues of the body, edema is divided into 6 types:

• hydremic, which occur with renal pathologies;
• cachectic, appearing due to diseases of the heart and blood vessels;
• mechanical, when fluid accumulates in tissues due to blows and bruises, which lead to disruption of venous blood flow;
• stagnant, developing with increased pressure in the capillaries;
• neuropathic, from which chronic alcoholics or diabetics suffer;
• allergic, which occurs when a person comes into contact with a powerful allergen (often medicines or food).

For each of these types of edema there is its own therapeutic and diagnostic approach. But it is better to try to avoid the factors that provoke their appearance.

Swelling of the limbs in pregnant women

As already noted, swelling of the ankle or lower leg is a common occurrence during pregnancy. On early stages such an anomaly is observed less frequently than in later ones. But if it does occur, it may be due to physiological changes in the body of the expectant mother.

Thus, in the first trimester of pregnancy, the volume of blood circulating through the blood vessels increases, which leads to intense pressure on the venous walls. Therefore, in addition to the fact that the leg goes numb, this process is also accompanied by swelling and the formation of bruises. This condition can lead to a woman developing varicose veins over time, so she urgently needs to consult a doctor.

During pregnancy recent months severe swelling of the legs may indicate dangerous condition- gestosis. In addition to swelling of the extremities, the patient should pay attention to the presence of the following alarming symptoms:

• persistent increase in blood pressure to 140/90 mm Hg. Art. and above;
• the appearance of flies before the eyes;
• dizziness;
• fainting state;
• arm or leg cramps;
• syncope;
• headaches;
• changes in gait (it becomes unsteady, unsteady).

This condition is treated in a hospital setting, which helps save the life of the mother and her baby.

Which doctor should I contact?

If you complain that your left or right leg is swelling, you should first contact a therapist (for pregnant women, a gynecologist). After determining the causes of the anomaly, the patient may be referred to:

Treatment will be prescribed by a specialized specialist depending on the causes of the deviation and the severity of the patient’s condition.

Diagnostics

In order to understand the cause of swelling of the right or left leg, the doctor may prescribe:

Diagnostic methods are selected individually in each case, since the further treatment regimen will depend on them.

Treatment

If there is swelling of the foot, leg or ankle on the left or right, you need to take diuretics. One of the safest and most effective medications is Furosemide. It begins to act 15 minutes after administration, but taking the tablet in the evening is not recommended.

You can also take advantage of the gifts of nature. Lingonberry leaves, linden flowers, raspberry branches and leaves, and rose hips have mild diuretic properties. These plants can be brewed and taken like regular vitamin tea. To ensure that swelling in the legs no longer makes itself felt, it is better to undergo a week-long course of treatment.

But such therapy is appropriate only if the swelling is caused by excess fluid or prolonged stay in one position. If the causes of leg swelling lie in pathologies of the heart, kidneys or endocrine system, then diuretics will not be enough - it is necessary to treat the underlying disease. And specific medications can only be prescribed by a doctor.

If the foot or lower leg is swollen due to varicose veins, it is necessary to wear compression garments - stockings, tights, knee socks or leg warmers. If deep veins are affected, it can be performed surgery– sclerotherapy or phlebectomy.

Prevention

To prevent swelling of the lower extremities, you must:

• drink no more than 1.5–2 liters of liquid per day;
• reduce the amount of salt consumed;
• alternate between sitting and physical activity;
• eat right;
• avoid obesity so as not to create additional stress on the heart;
• Minimize alcohol consumption.

Persons with diabetes mellitus, diseases of the heart, blood vessels and kidney pathologies, it is necessary to undergo regular preventive examinations. Serious complications can arise against the background of existing diseases, so a trip to the doctor will never be superfluous.

We consider the possible reasons why one leg swells. Choosing the right treatment.

Swelling of the left or right leg, in most cases, is not a life-threatening condition.

However, this causes considerable discomfort to most people and, if treated incorrectly and untimely, can take a chronic form. There can be many reasons for the development of such a condition.

Causes of the disease

Swelling of the lower extremities or any other parts human body occurs when a small amount of liquid penetrates into the intercellular space. This, in turn, occurs due to a number of reasons:

1. kidney disease;
2. failure of arterial and venous blood flow;
3. problems with lymphatic drainage;
4. uncomfortable shoes;
5. habit of sitting cross-legged;
6. long stay on a soft seat.

Minor swelling of one of the legs medical language is called pastiness. The swelling is not visible visually, but can only be determined by the condition of the skin - it becomes loose to the touch and pale. Such swelling is not necessarily caused by the presence of some pathology in the body.

Most likely, a person simply abuses salty foods or drinks a large amount of water at night.

Due to this, fluid accumulates in the body and manifests itself in the form of swelling. More severe unilateral swelling of the legs occurs with vein thrombosis, fracture, as well as with diseases of the hip and knee joints.

Edema in men

In men, swelling of one of the legs can be caused by chronic venous insufficiency or when veins are blocked by cholesterol plaques.

Despite this, if swelling of one of the legs regularly occurs, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor to identify the causes and provide timely medical assistance to the patient.

In women

Women are much more likely than men to experience swelling in their legs. Discomfort occurs at any age and depends on many reasons:

• an inflammatory process caused by an allergy to an external irritant or any infection;
• stress, nervous tension;
• decreased protein in the blood;
• damage to the walls of blood vessels;
• weakening of the heart muscles.

Each of the above reasons requires attention and immediate treatment. Just like in men, the concentration of excess fluid can be caused by wearing uncomfortable shoes, as well as due to excessive fluid intake, especially before bed.

Leg swelling during pregnancy

Very often, a pregnant woman complains of swelling of the left or right leg.

Discomfort occurs when overweight, which adds stress to the spine and legs.

Normally, the weight of a pregnant woman should increase by 8–10 kg by 9 months of fetal development.

But systematic overeating sometimes leads to an increase in body weight by 15 - 20 kg. and, as a result, swelling appears. If swelling appears on later, approximately in the third trimester, then this fact indicates the presence of late toxicosis.

Enough with this dangerous phenomenon a woman should immediately contact her doctor, as it poses a potential threat to both the woman herself and the unborn child.

After surgery

Leg swelling after surgery is a fairly common phenomenon. However, if it does not go away for a long time and causes discomfort to a person, then this should not be ignored. Postoperative swelling if the situation develops favorably, it should go away in about 7-8 days; if it lasts longer than this time and does not decrease, then some kind of pathology is developing in the body.

To identify the causes, the sick person needs to undergo ultrasound examination lower extremities. See a therapist or a more specialized specialist - a phlebologist. If there are problems with blood vessels, then this doctor will prescribe drugs that strengthen the walls of blood vessels and help thin the blood.

If everything is in order with a person’s blood vessels, then another cause of swelling in the leg after surgery may be stagnation of lymph or lymphatic edema. This disease is caused by stagnation of fluid containing large amounts of protein. In this case, the leg swells and a fairly sharp pain appears, which intensifies when stepping on the sore leg.

Treatment of the disease

Treatment of edema directly depends on the cause of its occurrence. If this is normal stagnation of fluid due to excessive consumption by a person, then attention should be paid to this - do not abuse carbonated drinks, and do not drink a lot of fluid at night.

Edema can be removed by using all kinds of diuretics that promote the natural removal of excess fluid from the body. At home, you can also massage the leg where swelling has appeared. Doctors recommend taking warm baths with sea salt for your feet. After this, you need to lie down for 10–15 minutes with your legs raised up.

Folk remedies

Helps very well in the treatment of edema of the lower extremities traditional methods treatment.

For example, a decoction from the collection medicinal herbs. To prepare it, you need to take any aluminum container and put there in equal parts: birch buds, horsetail, flax-seed, knotweed, one tablespoon.

All this must be poured with two glasses of hot water and mixed well. Then you need to put the container on low heat and bring to a boil, let it cool. The resulting decoction must be filtered and taken half a glass in the morning on an empty stomach.

This decoction is an excellent diuretic and can also tone and strengthen blood vessels.

Prevention

In order to prevent swelling in the legs, you need to follow some simple rules and recommendations. Firstly, you should always choose comfortable shoes. Overweight women are not recommended to wear high-heeled shoes every day, as well as boots that squeeze the lower leg.

Secondly, it is necessary to control the consumption of salt in food and prevent fluid retention in the body. Before going to bed, you can drink no more than a few sips of water.

If the profession of a person suffering from swelling of the lower extremities is associated with a long stay in one position, for example, an accountant or a driver, then he needs to take breaks as often as possible, during which it is better to do a short warm-up for the legs to restore blood flow.

It should be remembered that if swelling of the legs occurs regularly and does not respond to home treatment methods, then the patient must urgently seek help. medical care since this symptom can be caused by diseases that can cause serious damage to health.

14 years of experience in clinical diagnostic services.

Why does one leg swell?

Most common reasons

Often, when visiting a doctor, a patient complains of swelling of the legs. But this symptom does not always indicate the presence of a serious deviation. The phenomenon also occurs in completely healthy people, if they have consumed a lot of liquid or have been in a static forced position for a long time, the leg or both may swell during prolonged walking. Usually, in the normal state of the body, there is slight swelling in the ankle area, which quickly disappears after proper rest.

If a person constantly swells one leg, then the reasons may lie in the improper functioning of the organs. The following diseases are characterized by swelling:

• kidney disease with the development of failure - nephritis, amyloidosis;
• pathology of the heart muscle and heart failure;
• varicose veins of the lower extremities;
• impaired lymphatic drainage, including elephantiasis;
• arthritis of the ankle or knee joint;
• thrombophlebitis;
• rheumatism;
• osteomyelitis;
• sprain;
• allergy;
• hypertension;
• diabetes mellitus

There is another reason why the leg swells. Sometimes swelling of one or both lower extremities is observed during treatment with certain drugs - antihypertensive, hormonal. This symptom develops especially often in people who are overweight.

The problem appears when there is a lack of physical activity, constant standing, or wearing low-quality and uncomfortable shoes.

Often, swelling becomes a companion to pregnancy. This occurs due to physiological changes in the body of women during this period, but it can also be a sign of trouble.

Lymphostasis

Sometimes one limb becomes greatly enlarged due to impaired outflow of lymphatic fluid, which is observed in a number of diseases, including elephantiasis. Other reasons for this may be burns or erysipelas. Lymph in the human body performs the important function of transporting various toxic substances and metabolic reaction products from tissues to the blood. When lymphedema develops, the skin and fatty tissue in the affected area begins to thicken.

The patient has:

• severe swelling;
• pain;
• heaviness and distension;
• roughening of the skin;
• lymphadenopathy;
• increase in limb volume and impaired joint mobility;
• dryness and cracks in the skin, sometimes the appearance of ulcerations;
• discoloration in the affected area and the appearance of spots.

There are two types of elephantiasis. In the congenital form of this pathology, swelling of one or two legs from the foot is noted, spreading upward. The acquired version of the disease begins with swelling from above, which continues downward. Swelling caused by lymph stagnation is soft to the touch. When pressing, a hole remains in this place for a long time. This makes it possible to differentiate the same condition in case of disruption of the heart and kidneys.

Cardiac and renal failure

The occurrence of swelling in the area of ​​two or one leg may be a sign of heart failure. The organ cannot cope with pumping blood, and stagnation of blood circulation develops. Gradually, the peripheral vessels expand under the pressure of the increasing volume of blood, and its liquid part begins to exit into the tissues. Cardiac failure is formed as a result of rheumatism, congenital and acquired heart defects, cardiomyopathy, severe myocarditis, and cardiosclerotic changes.

Edema with this pathology has its own characteristics:

• appear in the ankle area;
• tend to spread upward;
• upon palpation they feel dense and cold;
• painless;
• arise and increase slowly.

If there is a deviation in the functioning of the kidneys, edema may also develop. Often, failure of these organs develops against the background of glomerulonephritis or amyloidosis. Filtration disturbances begin, toxic substances circulating in the blood poison the body. Swelling in kidney diseases is warm and loose. They appear quite quickly and disappear just as quickly.

How to treat

Before starting treatment, the doctor must determine the cause of the swelling. Diagnostics includes analysis of patient complaints, objective examination and palpation. After this, the results of laboratory tests and additional diagnostics are studied. Usually they do a urine and blood test (including biochemical), cardiogram, ultrasound of the kidneys and heart, Doppler sonography, angiography of blood vessels in the legs.

Treatment for a swollen leg usually consists of the following:

1. For varicose veins, the patient is recommended to wear special jersey, take venotonics and blood thinners in tablets, injections and ointments. NSAIDs help with inflammation and pain. In extreme cases of the disease, surgery is used.
2. For elephantiasis, physical therapy, special stockings with a high degree of compression, phlebotonics and immunostimulants are used. For such a patient, hardware pneumocompression is successfully used. If the above methods are ineffective, anastomoses are performed to restore outflow.
3. If the cause is an allergic reaction, the patient is recommended to take antihistamines and use compresses with an anti-inflammatory effect.
4. Kidney pathology is treated with glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants. Diuretics are used to remove excess fluid.
5. Swelling in heart failure is treated with glycosides and diuretics.

Traditional treatment

For a person with swollen legs, traditional healers recommend using, in addition to standard treatment, a decoction of herbs. To prepare it, you should put one large spoonful of birch buds, horsetail, knotweed and flax seed in a small container. After mixing, add 500 ml of boiling water to the mixture and bring to a boil over heat. After this, the decoction should be cooled and taken 100 ml before breakfast.

The healing herbs included in this collection will help not only eliminate swelling in the leg, but also improve microcirculation and increase the tone of the vascular wall.

Edema that appears should be taken seriously, since it can be a symptom of serious abnormalities in the functioning of many organs and systems. Therefore, if even slight pastiness appears in the shin or knee area, you should immediately consult a specialist.