What should you know about leg swelling in old age?

Less movement, weaker leg muscles, vein changes and long periods sitting can encourage ankle swelling. Varicose veins may cause heaviness, while heart failure or chronic kidney disease can affect the body's fluid balance. Obesity and medicines for blood pressure or other conditions can also contribute. A clinician will consider whether both legs are affected, how quickly the change appeared, and whether breathing, urine, skin colour or mobility have changed.

Keep moving safely, flex the ankles during sitting, elevate the legs when comfortable and check the skin for cracks, blisters or redness. Well-fitting footwear reduces pressure. Keep a record of when swelling appears and bring a full medicine list to an appointment. Do not alter prescribed medicines or begin compression garments until a clinician confirms they are suitable.

Seek emergency help for new breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, confusion or a blue-grey appearance. Arrange same-day assessment for sudden one-sided swelling, severe pain, a hot red leg, fever, a cold or pale foot, or a sudden drop in urine. Prompt review also matters when swelling is steadily worsening.

Ask what may be causing the swelling, whether heart or kidney checks are needed, how to protect the skin, and which exercises or compression choices are safe.