Foot swelling or leg swelling in adults (2024)

Table of Contents

When to seek medical advice Foot swelling or leg swelling in adults Mayo Clinic Press

Symptoms

About this Symptom Checker

When to seek medical advice

Get medical care as soon as possible if:

You have unexplained, painful swelling of your feet or legs, particularly if it's only in one leg
The swollen area becomes warm, red or inflamed
The swelling is accompanied by a fever

Also seek immediate medical care if you're pregnant and develop:

Sudden foot swelling
A noticeable change in foot swelling
Swelling in only one foot or leg
Sudden swelling along with other new signs or symptoms such as severe headache, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, or shortness of breath

Foot swelling or leg swelling in adults

Find possible causes of foot swelling or leg swelling based on specific factors. Check one or more factors on this page that apply to your symptom.

Pain best described as

Dull or achy
Gradually worsening

Swelling occurs

Along whole limb
Around ankle or foot
Around knee

In both limbs
In one limb

Triggered or worsened by

Activity or overuse
Everyday activities

Injury
Movement

Preceded by

Inactivity or long periods of rest
Sitting or standing still for long periods

Relieved by

Walking

Accompanied by

Enlarged or purplish vein in affected leg
Entire leg or calf being pale and cool
Fatigue
Hardening of skin in affected area
Heaviness in affected limb
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Pain, tenderness or aching in affected area

Persistent cough
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Redness and warmth in affected area
Shortness of breath that may prevent sleep unless propped up
Stiffness
Stiffness or limited movement
Swelling
Swelling in abdomen or other parts of body

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