Most often, leg swelling occurs when fluid accumulates in spaces between the cells in your lower extremities. Medical professionals refer to this problem as edema. If a dent remains on the swollen leg after pressing with your finger, it is called peripheral edema due to issues with your kidneys, venous circulation, or lymphatic system. While fluid build-up may indicate a severe underlying condition such as deep vein thrombosis and chronic kidney disease, that is not always the case. Sometimes, Weston swollen legs occur due to fluid retention, which may result from the following:

Too much salt consumption

Table salt contains sodium, the most significant dietary culprit for water retention. Consuming too much salt can therefore cause your legs to swell. Specialists recommend that adults take not more than approximately a teaspoon of salt every day. Although salt contains sodium, most of the sodium you consume comes from processed foods such as bread, canned soup, frozen foods, and salad dressings. If your feet and legs are swollen, you may need to consume less of these foods and more potassium-rich foods such as potatoes. Sodium-free food such as fruits, nuts, whole grains, seeds, and vegetables are good when you have swollen legs.

Long hours of sitting or standing

If your work requires you to stand or sit for long hours, your shoes may feel tight at the end of the day. Here is why: Sedentary positions do not give the muscles in your legs a chance to contract. Muscle contraction facilitates blood to move from the legs to the heart. When the muscles don’t contract, blood circulation slows down, which causes your legs to swell. The same is true when you cross your legs at your knees. The position forces you to pinch blood vessels, aggravating the swelling. Although swollen legs at the end of each day can be annoying, it usually does not indicate a severe problem. If you stand for long hours, sit for at least five minutes every hour or elevate your legs to avoid swelling.

Pregnancy

Swollen feet and legs are an inevitable part of pregnancy for most women, which typically begins in the second trimester. The body undergoes several changes during pregnancy, including increased blood volume to support the growth and development of the fetus. As the baby grows, it exerts pressure on the pelvic veins, compromising blood circulation. The hormonal changes during pregnancy also contribute to swollen legs and feet. The body produces relaxin hormone during pregnancy, which relaxes and enlarges the pelvic, ligaments, and foot joints.

The swelling tends to worsen as the pregnancy progresses, especially in the evening or hot outside. Usually, leg swelling during pregnancy is nothing to worry about. However, call the doctor if the swelling is rapid and affects other body parts, including your face and hands.

Swollen legs can be uncomfortable, especially when your shoes or socks feel tight. If you need to understand the treatment for swollen legs, consult with your doctor today at Soffer Health Institute.