What should you know about swollen calves and ankles?

Swelling in both legs that is worse after standing can reflect fluid settling in the tissues or sluggish return through the veins. Varicose veins can contribute, while kidney disease and heart failure can cause fluid to collect in the legs. Obesity can increase pressure on leg veins. Swelling on one side, especially with pain, warmth or redness, needs prompt assessment because a clot or infection may be involved. A clinician may ask when it began, whether it changes overnight, and which medicines you take.

Raise your legs on a footstool when resting, avoid sitting or standing still for long periods, and take gentle walks if movement is comfortable. Loosen tight socks and shoes, protect swollen skin from dryness or breaks, and compare both legs each day. Do not start compression socks or water tablets without advice, particularly if the swelling appeared suddenly or you have heart, kidney or circulation problems. Arrange a routine appointment if swelling keeps returning or does not settle.

Seek urgent help for sudden one-sided calf swelling, significant pain, warmth, redness, chest pain, breathlessness, faintness or coughing blood. Contact a clinician promptly for rapidly increasing swelling, fever, a wound that is not healing, or new swelling during pregnancy. If both legs remain swollen or you also notice reduced urine, unusual tiredness or breathlessness when lying down, arrange medical assessment soon.

Ask what could explain the distribution of your swelling, whether your medicines may contribute, whether you need blood or urine tests, and which form of compression or activity is suitable for you.