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Causes of lower leg swelling

Where Swollen Ankles is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline
Illustration: Where Swollen Ankles is typically felt, shown on a simplified body outline

Short answer

Lower leg swelling can result from prolonged sitting, vein problems, medication effects, excess body weight, or heart and kidney conditions; sudden one-sided swelling needs prompt assessment.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

Compare
Notice whether one leg or both legs are affected
Track
Record timing, pain, redness and breathlessness

What the swelling may mean

Fluid can collect around the ankles after standing or sitting for a long time. Veins that do not return blood efficiently may cause heaviness, aching, visible veins or swelling that is worse later in the day; see [Varicose Veins](/conditions/varicose-veins/). Some medicines and [Obesity](/conditions/obesity/) can contribute. Swelling in both legs with breathlessness, reduced exercise tolerance or rapid weight change can occur with [Heart Failure](/conditions/heart-failure/). Kidney problems such as [Chronic Kidney Disease](/conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/) may also cause fluid retention. The appearance of swelling cannot establish its cause.

What to do now

Compare both legs and note when swelling began, whether it leaves a dent after gentle pressure, and whether it changes overnight. Avoid sitting still for long periods; gentle walking and raising the legs may help when comfortable. Do not start water tablets or stop prescribed medicine without advice. Arrange a clinical review for persistent, recurrent or unexplained swelling.

When to seek care

Get urgent help if one leg becomes suddenly swollen, painful, warm or red, or if swelling occurs with chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing blood, faintness or severe weakness. Seek prompt review for swelling with very little urine, marked breathlessness when lying down, or rapidly worsening symptoms.

Questions for your doctor

Ask what is most likely causing the swelling, whether your medicines or veins may be involved, whether blood or urine tests are needed, and what activity or leg elevation is suitable for you.

Find care

General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

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See every listing in Abu Dhabi

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Questions people ask

Can sitting cause lower leg swelling?

Yes. Staying still can slow venous return and allow fluid to collect around the ankles, particularly later in the day.

When is one swollen leg urgent?

Sudden swelling in one leg, especially with pain, warmth or redness, needs urgent assessment, as does swelling with breathing difficulty or chest pain.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.