How to Improve Leg Edema

Leg edema is another term for swelling of the leg. Leg edema has many causes, such as heart or kidney disorders. Another cause of leg edema may be a blood clot. Fluid retention can also make legs swell, especially if you are on your feet all day. Causes of leg edema range from benign to life threatening. Treatment is based on an accurate medical diagnosis. It is important that your physician determine what is causing your leg swelling before you employ treatments to alleviate it.

Things You'll Need

• Medical examination
• Compression stockings
• Pillows

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Instructions

• 1

  Schedule a doctor's appointment. Before treatment can begin, your doctor needs to evaluate the cause of your leg edema. Do not assume that your leg swelling is simply the result of standing on your feet for extended periods of time. This may well be the case, however, only your doctor can make a proper diagnosis.

• 2

  Exercise your legs. By walking or making small circles with your ankles, you will increase your circulation, thereby helping the blood and fluid make it's way back to the heart. Try not to sit or stand in the same position for extended time periods. Flexing your leg muscles every so often may also be effective to keep the blood circulating.

• 3

  Wear compression stockings. These stockings squeeze or compress the veins to prevent back flow of the blood. You will need to be measured for your compression stockings to make sure they are properly fitted. Your doctor may have the stockings available at his or her office, or may recommend where you can obtain them.

• 4

  Elevate your legs when you are lying down by placing pillows under your knees. By elevating your legs higher than your heart, you can help prevent the blood and fluid from pooling and backing up. Elevating your legs will encourage effective circulation and lessen the discomfort of swollen legs and ankles.

• 5

  Avoid salt. By reducing salt intake, you can minimize fluid retention that can contribute to leg edema. There are many alternatives to salt that are available to flavor your food, such as salt substitute or fragrant spices. Try to avoid prepackaged foods, as many are high in sodium. Always incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet because they assist your body in getting rid of excess fluids.

• 6

  Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight can put a strain on your legs and veins causing an increase in fluid retention.

• 7

  Ask your doctor if diuretic medication would be appropriate for you. A diuretic is a "water pill" that helps remove excess fluids from the body. This can dramatically improve leg edema and also lower blood pressure, which frequently accompanies circulatory conditions of the leg.