How to reduce leg swelling

Fluid can collect in the tissues around the ankles and lower legs after long periods of sitting or standing. Swelling may also occur with varicose veins, obesity, some medicines, or problems affecting the heart or kidneys. One swollen leg can have a different cause from swelling in both legs, so the timing, location, skin changes, and associated symptoms matter. Swelling alone does not identify a diagnosis.

Walk gently and flex the ankles during long periods of sitting, unless movement is painful. Raise the legs while resting and avoid tight socks or clothing that leaves deep marks. Protect swollen skin with moisturiser and check for cuts or redness. Do not start water tablets or compression garments without advice, because the right choice depends on circulation, heart health, kidney function, and the cause of swelling. Record whether it is worse in the morning or evening and whether one side changes more.

Get urgent help for sudden swelling of one leg with warmth, redness, tenderness, or calf pain, especially after immobility. Emergency symptoms include breathlessness, chest pain, coughing blood, fainting, or sudden severe weakness. Arrange a medical review for new or steadily worsening swelling, swelling with reduced urine, marked fatigue, rapid weight change, or breathlessness when lying down.

Ask which cause is most consistent with the distribution and timing, whether medicines need review, and whether blood tests or heart, kidney, or vein assessment is appropriate. Mention travel, recent surgery, injury, and reduced mobility.