Leg swelling can happen after a long day on your feet, a tough workout, or even hours in the car. However, when this issue becomes frequent, painful, or difficult to ignore, it may be a sign of an underlying circulation problem that needs medical attention.
At Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy (MINT) in St. Louis, MO, patients receive advanced, image-guided care using minimally invasive treatments whenever possible. Board-certified Interventional Radiologist Dr. Goke Akinwande and his team focus on helping patients find relief without major surgery.
Below are three common causes of leg swelling, plus advice on when you should consult a medical professional.
1. Chronic Venous Insufficiency
One of the most well-known causes of leg swelling is chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). This condition occurs when the leg veins struggle to send blood back to the heart.
Symptoms include:
- Inflammation around the ankles and lower legs
- Leg fatigue or heaviness
- Aching or throbbing pain
- Skin discoloration
- Varicose veins
2. Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) happens when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the legs. While PAD is often linked to leg pain while walking, some people also experience swelling, numbness, or wounds that heal slowly.
Risk factors for PAD include:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Family history of vascular disease
3. Blood Clots
A blood clot in the leg can be serious and should never be ignored. Swelling from a clot usually affects one leg and may develop suddenly.
Warning signs include:
- Warmth in the affected area
- Red or discolored skin
- Cramping or pain in the calf
- Sudden swelling in one leg
When Should You Seek Medical Care for Leg Swelling?
Occasional mild swelling is not always cause for concern. However, you should seek medical care if you experience:
- Swelling that does not improve
- Pain or cramping
- Skin changes or ulcers
- Swelling in only one leg
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Difficulty walking due to heaviness or discomfort
Find Relief From Leg Swelling Today
Leg swelling is not something you have to simply live with. Whether your symptoms are linked to vein disease, poor circulation, or another vascular condition, early care may improve comfort and mobility while lowering the risk of complications.
Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy offers minimally invasive treatment options to help patients feel better with less downtime. To learn more or schedule an appointment at one of our locations in Missouri or Illinois, call 314-255-2204 today.