Edema

Extra fluid trapped in soft tissue, often in the legs and feet.

Description

Swelling caused by too much fluid trapped in the body's tissues, often affecting the legs and feet.

Self-care

A health care professional might recommend these tips:

• Wear compression garments.
• Eat less sodium.
• Move muscles in affected body parts.
• Massage the swollen area.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a health care professional right away if swelling happens along with:

• Shortness of breath.
• Irregular heartbeat.
• Chest pain.
• Lasting leg pain after sitting for a long time.

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a health care professional for:

• Swelling.
• Stretched or shiny skin.
• Skin that holds a dimple after being pressed.
• An increase in the size of the stomach area.
• A feeling of heaviness in the leg.