Any number of things can cause swelling in your feet or legs. One potentially serious condition is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein in the leg (or less often, the arm). DVT is dangerous because the clot could travel to the heart or lungs and be fatal. While almost 50% of people with DVT have no symptoms, others experience these signs and symptoms:
- swelling in one leg (or arm)
- leg pain or tenderness that feels like a cramp or Charley horse
- bluish or reddish tint to the skin
- leg (or arm) feeling warm to the touch
If you experience any of these symptoms, you may need to see a doctor, especially if you are at a higher risk for having developed DVT due to:
- inactivity, such as after a major operation or during a flight
- damage to a vein from a catheter (like those used in dialysis) or from a PICC line
- cancer and certain other diseases and genetic conditions, called hypercoagulable states, that can cause your blood to clot more easily
- medications, especially hormones (including birth control)
Diagnosing DVT
A vascular specialist will diagnose DVT by considering the patient’s risk factors and symptoms, conducting a physical exam, and running specific tests. These tests may include:
- D-dimer blood test, which can help determine if a blood clot has begun to form
- duplex ultrasound, which images the veins to check for clots
Other Causes of Swollen Legs
Swollen legs can also be caused by edema, or fluid buildup, which occurs when the tissues or blood vessels retain more fluid than they should. This can be the result of spending a long day on your feet or sitting for too long, or it could be a sign that you are overweight or have heart failure. Some medications cause fluid retention, which can cause swelling in the legs. Varicose veins can also sometimes cause leg swelling.
Edema in the legs might be a sign of a more serious medical condition, including injury or infection, venous insufficiency, lymphedema, or other issues. Fluid build-up could also be a symptom of congestive heart failure, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, fatigue, and a cough.
If you have unexplained swelling in a leg or legs, you may need to see a vascular specialist. Muskegon Surgical Associates are highly skilled and experienced at treating DVT and other vascular conditions. Contact us for an appointment.
Sources: MSA Vascular Services, Stop the Clot and Healthline