THEedema legs is often a symptom of an underlying disease. It manifests itself byswellingthat is, by an accumulation of fluids in the space between the cells of the tissues under the skin. The swelling can affect only one leg, but more often both.

Edema is usually related to a malfunction of the blood system, especially veins. This is because when the small blood vessels called capillaries are put under too much pressure or are damaged, they can leak fluids, mainly water, into the surrounding tissues.

When the capillaries leak, there is less fluid inside the blood system. The kidneys sense this and compensate by retaining more sodium and water, which increases the amount of fluid in the body and causes more water to leak further from the capillaries. It follows a swelling fabrics.

Edema can also be the result of poor blood circulation. lymph, a clear liquid that circulates throughout the body and is responsible for removing toxins and wastes from the metabolism.

Causes

Edema can occur due to a person’s state of health, be the result of an underlying disease, or from taking certain medications:

• When we keep the standing or sitting position too long, especially in hot weather;
• When a woman is pregnant. Her uterus can put pressure on the vena cava, a blood vessel that carries blood from the legs to the heart. In pregnant women, edema of the legs can also have a more serious origin: preeclampsia;
• Heart failure;
• Venous insufficiency (which is sometimes accompanied by varicose veins);
• Obstruction of the veins (phlebitis);
• In the case of chronic lung disease (emphysema, chronic bronchitis, etc.). These diseases increase the pressure in the blood vessels, producing a buildup of fluids in the legs and feet;
• In the case of a kidney disease;
• In the case of a liver cirrhosis;
• Following a accident or a surgery;
• Due to a malfunction of the lymphatic system;
• After the absorption of some pharmaceuticals, such as those that dilate blood vessels, as well as estrogens, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or calcium antagonists.

When to consult?

Edema in the legs is not serious in itself, it is often a reflection of a relatively benign condition. It is nevertheless necessary to consult so that the doctor determines the cause and proposes a treatment if necessary.