Leg swelling: In many Indian households, mothers and elderly women often experience leg swelling, which is usually ignored or attributed to standing for long hours while working. However, this condition is not limited to women alone—many men also suffer from it. But why does leg swelling happen? Is it really just due to excessive standing, or is there an underlying health concern? AIIMS expert Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat has shared crucial insights on this issue, explaining the real causes of leg swelling and when it requires medical attention. She recently uploaded a video on her Instagram account, highlighting the medical reasons behind this common problem.
Why Does Leg Swelling Occur? AIIMS Expert Explains the Real Cause
Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat explains that the primary cause of leg swelling is fluid leakage from blood vessels, which accumulates in the tissues, leading to visible swelling. This condition can arise due to several underlying health issues.
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One of the most common reasons is Anemia. When hemoglobin levels drop below 7 or 8, it can lead to swelling in the legs, while also increasing stress on the heart. Maintaining healthy hemoglobin levels—12 for females and 13 for males—is crucial for preventing this condition.
The main causes of anemia include:
- Iron deficiency
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
Dr. Sehrawat stresses that identifying and treating these deficiencies is essential to avoid long-term complications.
Underlying Health Conditions That May Cause Leg Swelling
Apart from anemia, leg swelling could indicate serious issues with major organs, including:
- Heart problems: If the heart isn’t functioning well, it can lead to fluid retention.
- Kidney issues: Poor kidney function can cause swelling due to excess fluid buildup.
- Liver diseases: Liver dysfunction can also contribute to leg swelling, which should not be ignored.
Dr. Sehrawat advises people experiencing leg swelling to get their heart, kidney, and liver health checked to rule out any serious conditions.
One Leg or Both? Why It Matters
Another important point highlighted by Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat is the pattern of swelling:
- Swelling in both legs may indicate systemic issues like anemia or organ dysfunction.
- Swelling in just one leg could be due to an infection or a blood clot in that leg.
She strongly recommends consulting a doctor to identify the root cause instead of ignoring the symptoms.
If you or someone in your family is experiencing frequent leg swelling, do not dismiss it as a minor issue. Follow Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat’s advice and seek medical attention to address the underlying health concerns before they worsen.