Swollen Legs - Causes and Symptoms

Definition

In most cases, swollen legs are the result of fluid accumulation (water retention) or inflammation associated with trauma or joint disease.

The recurrent swelling of the lower limbs, associated with a feeling of heaviness, tingling and itching, can be the first symptom of a blood circulation problem, such as venous insufficiency. Furthermore, the risk that the swollen legs are associated with serious conditions, such as heart disease and chronic kidney disease (renal disease) should not be underestimated.

Swollen legs associated with intense spontaneous pain and aggravated by movement, heat and congestion of the superficial veins may depend on phlebitis. Edema, pain, a feeling of tension, sensitive and hot skin, and a possible bluish complexion on the affected extremity, can instead indicate a venous obstruction (deep vein thrombosis).

Varicose veins are characterized by heaviness, swollen and painful legs, cramps in the calves, tingling and dilation of the veins; these symptoms are typically aggravated by standing and high temperatures.

The swollen legs can also be the sign of a lymphedema, that is of an accumulation of liquids in the interstitial space, due to an insufficiency of the lymphatic system. Initially, this disorder can present itself as a soft edema that recedes with the night rest and evolves into a non-compressible swelling and with a fibrous consistency, with a difference in size compared to the contralateral healthy limb; symptoms may also include pain and fatigue. Lymphedema can occur without apparent causes or as a result of inflammation, an infection or a tumor.