Peripheral Edema & Leg Swelling
Medically Reviewed & Fact-CheckedBy MD, Emergency Medicine & Internal Medicine
Reviewed: 9/6/2026Overview
Palpable swelling in the lower extremities resulting from expansion of interstitial fluid volume. Can be unilateral (local vascular or lymphatic disruption) or bilateral (systemic volume overload or hydrostatic pressure elevation).
Possible Causes
- Bilateral: Congestive Heart Failure, Chronic Kidney Disease / Nephrotic Syndrome, Liver Cirrhosis, Calcium Channel Blocker therapy (Amlodipine), Chronic Venous Insufficiency.
- Unilateral: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), Cellulitis, Ruptured Baker Cyst, Lymphedema.
When to Seek Care
Seek emergency evaluation if one leg becomes painfully swollen and red, or if swelling is accompanied by chest pain and breathlessness. Consult your physician if swelling in both ankles worsens gradually over weeks.
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