Causes of Swollen Legs

Although swollen legs may not always be a serious health issue, there could be underlying treatable medical causes. If you have been sitting, standing, or walking for an extended period and have swollen legs, it may be time to see a doctor. Visit Vein Specialists in Fort Myers or Bonita Springs to learn more about the possible causes. Although leg swelling and pain are not always linked with vein issues, venous disease is a common cause. If caught early, there are minimally invasive swollen leg treatment options. These treatments can prevent serious complications of untreated venous disease.

Common health issues that may cause swollen legs include:

How to Reduce Swollen Legs

You may think swollen legs do not require a visit to the doctor. However, leg swelling could be a sign of a serious problem and may often be related to vein disease. Obtaining an expert evaluation of your veins is a logical step. A vein specialist can determine whether vein disease is the cause and the best-swollen leg treatment for you.

Quite often, non-vein specialist physicians may order a standard venous ultrasound. This is to rule out blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This type of ultrasound does not always evaluate the one-way valves in leg veins to see if they are operating as they should. Checking your venous system for possible clots is very important. The problem is standard venous ultrasounds for DVT often miss the underlying cause of swollen legs: venous insufficiency. As a result, your initial clinical evaluation could result in a “normal” diagnosis or a “negative clot” result. You may need a more specialized ultrasound to rule out venous insufficiency as the underlying problem.

When to See a Doctor for Swollen Legs

Occasional swelling in your legs may not be a cause for concern. If it becomes an issue that cannot be controlled through lifestyle changes, it’s time to see a doctor. If you develop blisters or sores in the swollen areas, these are also signs you need an evaluation.

Swelling only on one side is perhaps the most worrisome sign you should seek expert vein care. One-sided swelling may indicate a blood clot or DVT, which, if untreated, can cause further issues for your health. A vein expert like Dr. Magnant will evaluate your symptoms. He can also look at your physical signs, discuss your medical history, and recommend a swollen leg treatment plan.

Best Treatments for Swollen Legs

If venous insufficiency is causing your swelling, Vein Specialists in Bonita Springs and Fort Myers offers many treatment options. Treatments range from conservative compression therapy to minimally invasive procedures to eliminate the underlying venous insufficiency. Depending on your diagnosis, our team will determine the most effective swollen leg treatment option for you.