Swollen Legs

Swollen legs occur commonly in old adults. It can occur due to injury, build-up of fluid in the body, being inactive, prolonged sitting or standing, and wearing tight socks. It can be a sign of heart disease or acute kidney failure. It can also occur due to pulmonary hypertension, cardiomyopathy, nephrotic syndrome, obesity, and pericarditis. Swollen legs can also occur due to inflammation of legs seen in rheumatoid arthritis, Achilles tendon rupture, burns, cellulitis, and osteoarthritis. It is managed by taking a low-salt diet, giving exercise to the legs often, and wearing support stockings. Keeping legs in a pillow above the heart level helps reduce swelling in the legs, and taking frequent breaks during traveling helps to reduce it.