# Lower limb oedema

> Swelling of the legs due to fluid accumulation in the tissues; it is not a disease in itself but a sign that may be due to chronic venous insufficiency, lymphoedema, the after-effects of thrombosis, immobility, heat, being overweight, or other medical causes.

**URL:** https://clinicadrmolina.es/en/lower-limb-oedema-swollen-legs/

- **Cause:** Accumulation of fluid in the tissues of the leg, favoured above all by chronic venous insufficiency, lymphoedema, or the after-effects of a previous deep vein thrombosis.
- **Risk factors:** Being overweight; A sedentary lifestyle; Jobs involving long periods standing or sitting; Heat; Tight clothing around the thighs or pelvis; Footwear that restricts ankle movement; Lack of regular physical activity
- **Possible treatment:** Depending on the cause: lifestyle measures and compression for venous oedema; varicose vein treatment (radiofrequency, VenaSeal®, or others) if there is significant reflux; decongestive therapy (manual lymphatic drainage, compression, skin care) for lymphoedema; urgent assessment if thrombosis is suspected.
- **Typical diagnostic test:** Venous Duplex ultrasound (https://clinicadrmolina.es/en/venous-doppler-ultrasound-varicose-veins/)

## Frequently asked questions

### Does leg swelling always mean varicose veins?

NO. Varicose veins are a common cause, but not the only one. Oedema may also appear as a consequence of lymphoedema, the after-effects of thrombosis, lipoedema, immobility, heat, or other general medical causes (cardiac, liver-related, renal, hormonal, and others).

### Do compression stockings eliminate oedema?

They may help a great deal when they are properly indicated and correctly fitted, especially in venous oedema. In many cases they control symptoms, but they do not eliminate the underlying cause if there are varicose veins or significant venous insufficiency.

### Is it normal for legs to swell in summer?

It is common for heat to worsen venous symptoms because it encourages the veins to dilate. Even so, if the swelling is significant, persistent, or asymmetrical, it should be assessed.

### When can a swollen leg be urgent?

When it appears suddenly, mainly affects one leg, and is accompanied by pain, redness, local heat, or difficulty walking. In these cases, thrombosis or other acute problems must be ruled out.

### Does venous Doppler ultrasound hurt?

NO. It is a non-invasive test, with no needles, which makes it possible to study how the veins work and guide the vascular diagnosis.

### Can lymphoedema be treated?

YES. Although it is usually a chronic problem, it can be treated. The approach may include decongestive therapy, compression, lymphatic drainage, exercise, and skin care, always adapted to the individual case.


---

**About the clinic: Dr. Jorge Molina – Clínica de varices en Valencia**

Hospital LA SALUD, Consultas Externas, Planta 2ª, Consultas 211-212. Calle Dr. Manuel Candela, 41, 46021 Valencia, España.

- Phone / WhatsApp: +34 641 630 466
- Book an appointment online: https://clinicadrmolina.es/en/online-booking/