General and whole body
Body or leg swelling
Also called swelling, edema, sujan, leg swelling, foot swelling
What this means
Swelling, often in the feet, ankles or around the eyes, happens when fluid builds up in the body. It can be linked to the heart, kidneys, liver or other causes, so the reason should be checked.
Safe to do at home
- Raise your legs on a pillow when resting
- Reduce salt in your diet
- Stay gently active and avoid sitting still for very long
Please do not do this alone
- Do not take water pills or diuretics on your own
- Do not ignore swelling that keeps increasing
- Do not heavily restrict fluids without medical advice
Book a consultation if
- Swelling lasts more than a few days or keeps returning
- Swelling in both legs or around the eyes with tiredness
- Swelling along with reduced urine or weight gain
Get help immediately if
- Sudden swelling with breathlessness or chest pain
- Swelling of one leg that is red, hot and painful
- Swelling of the face, lips or throat with difficulty breathing
The right doctor for this
General Physician
This is the specialist who sees this symptom most often and can examine you properly. If you are not sure, a general physician is always a safe place to start and will refer you onward if you need it.
