Face and leg swelling: what to know

Swelling happens when extra fluid collects in body tissues. Swelling in both legs, especially with puffiness around the eyes, can occur with problems affecting fluid balance, including chronic kidney disease or heart failure. Varicose veins can cause heaviness and swelling that worsens after standing. Some medicines, salty meals, heat, or prolonged sitting can also contribute. A single swollen leg has a different concern pattern from swelling on both sides; pain, warmth, redness, or sudden onset deserves prompt assessment.

Note when the swelling began, whether it changes during the day, and whether shoes, rings, or clothing feel tighter. Keep a record of new medicines and recent illnesses. Until assessed, avoid stopping prescribed treatment without advice, take gentle movement breaks, and raise your legs when resting if that is comfortable. Do not use water tablets or compression garments without a clinician checking that they are suitable. A clinician may examine your heart, lungs, legs, and abdomen and arrange urine or blood tests when indicated.

Seek urgent help for swelling with trouble breathing, chest pain, faintness, confusion, or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat. Arrange prompt medical review for sudden one-sided leg swelling, marked pain, redness, warmth, or swelling that is rapidly worsening. Book a routine appointment if swelling persists, keeps returning, or comes with reduced urine, unusual tiredness, or breathlessness when lying down.

Ask what pattern of swelling you have, whether a medicine or underlying condition could be contributing, and which tests are appropriate. Ask whether you should adjust salt intake, activity, leg elevation, or compression, and which symptoms should trigger urgent help.