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Treatment for Edema in the Legs

Edema is caused when excess fluid builds up in the legs. Edema is caused by sitting or standing for long periods of time, eating salty foods, pregnancy or congestive heart failure. There are treatments to help reduce or get rid of edema in the legs.

  1. Diuretics

    • Diuretics such as thiazide, furosemide and spironolactone reduce swelling by causing the kidney's to increase output of water and sodium.

    Limit Salt

    • Excessive use of salt can cause water retention. Limiting salt intake decreases fluid retention.

    Get Moving

    • Exercise, like walking, will help decrease edema by pumping extra fluid back to the heart.

    Elevation

    • Elevating the legs with pillows for 30 minutes three to four times a day above the level of your heart will help send fluid back through the body.

    Massage

    • Massaging the legs using firm strokes toward the heart will move extra fluid out of the legs.

    Support Stockings

    • Support stockings are purchased over-the-counter or by prescription and reduces edema by putting pressure on the legs to stop fluid from building up.

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