🦵 Leg Swelling & Edema – What It Means and How to Feel Better – Internal medicine physician Georgetown TX
- Dr. Mohammad Al Darawsha MD
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
If your legs, ankles, or feet feel tight, puffy, or look swollen — especially at the end of the day — you might be dealing with edema. While it’s often mild, swelling can sometimes signal something more serious going on.
At Wellness Bay Primary Care, our patients in Georgetown TX frequently ask, “Why are my legs swelling?” Whether it’s occasional or constant, we’re here to help you find out what’s going on — and how to feel better.
💧 What Is Edema?
Edema is the medical word for fluid buildup in the body’s tissues. It’s most common in the lower legs, ankles, and feet — but can also occur in the arms or hands. The skin may look stretched, shiny, or leave a dent after pressing it.
It’s not a disease itself, but a symptom of something else — from standing too long to heart or kidney conditions.
🛑 Common Causes of Leg Swelling by Internal medicine physician Georgetown TX
As your trusted internal medicine physician Georgetown TX, we start by looking at the most common causes:
Prolonged sitting or standing
Hot weather
High-sodium diet
Chronic venous insufficiency (weak leg veins)
Heart failure (fluid backs up into legs)
Kidney or liver problems
Certain medications (like calcium channel blockers, NSAIDs, or steroids)
Hormonal changes or pregnancy
Blood clots (DVT)
Lymphedema (blockage in lymph flow)
Infections or injuries
🧬 What’s Happening in the Body? (Pathophysiology)
Leg swelling occurs when:
Pressure in your blood vessels increases, pushing fluid into the tissues
Or, your veins or lymph system can’t return fluid effectively back to the heart
This causes visible puffiness — especially around the ankles — and may worsen throughout the day.
🔬 What Tests Might Be Needed?
At Wellness Bay, we investigate swelling carefully to pinpoint the cause:
👩⚕️ Physical exam and medical history
🩺 Blood pressure and weight check
💉 Blood tests (kidney, liver, thyroid, protein levels)
🧪 Urinalysis (to check for protein loss)
🩻 EKG or chest X-ray (if we suspect heart strain)
🦵 Venous Doppler ultrasound (to rule out DVT or poor circulation)
Every step is explained clearly — and no rushed visits.
💊 Treatment Options – Medical & Home-Based
Treatment depends on the cause. For some, lifestyle tweaks are enough. Others may need medications or further workup.
🩺 Medical Options
Diuretics (water pills) if fluid is building due to heart, liver, or kidney issues
Compression stockings to improve circulation
Medication adjustments if a drug is contributing
Referral to cardiology, nephrology, or vascular specialists, if needed
We guide every choice with safety and comfort in mind.
🏡 Home Remedies & Daily Tips
These steps can bring significant relief for mild to moderate swelling:
🦶 Elevate legs above heart level for 20–30 minutes a few times per day
🧦 Use graduated compression socks
🧂 Reduce salt — check labels on canned, packaged, or fast foods
💧 Drink more water (it helps your body flush extra fluid!)
🚶 Move around every hour — even short walks help
🛏️ Sleep with a small pillow under your legs
🛁 Soak your legs in cool water at the end of the day
At our family medical clinic in Georgetown TX, we help tailor these tips based on your lifestyle.
❓ Top 10 FAQs – Swelling & Edema
💭 Is leg swelling normal as I age?
Mild swelling can be more common, but it’s never something to ignore — we’ll make sure it’s not from an underlying issue.
💭 Can it be related to my heart or kidneys?
Yes — we check for this with labs, EKG, and exams if your symptoms raise concern.
💭 Are compression socks safe?
Yes — especially when fitted correctly. We’ll recommend the right strength and size.
💭 Do certain medications cause leg swelling?
Absolutely — including blood pressure meds and anti-inflammatory drugs. We help review your meds.
💭 When is swelling serious?
If it’s one-sided, sudden, painful, or comes with shortness of breath, seek care immediately.
💭 Is it okay to take water pills on my own?
Please don’t — diuretics need monitoring. We’ll help you use them safely if needed.
💭 Can food affect edema?
Yes — high sodium increases fluid retention. Eating fresh, low-sodium meals can help.
💭 Should I get a Doppler test?
We’ll decide together. It’s often helpful when vein issues or clots are possible.
💭 Can I treat it naturally?
For mild swelling, yes — lifestyle changes and elevation often help a lot.
💭 Why Wellness Bay?
Because we take time to listen, explain things clearly, and treat the whole person, not just symptoms.
👨⚕️ When to See a Doctor
Book a visit with us if:
Your swelling is persistent, painful, or getting worse
You notice swelling on just one leg
It’s affecting your ability to walk, wear shoes, or sleep
You want peace of mind and expert evaluation
You’re looking for a kind, trusted internal medicine physician in Georgetown TX
💬 Let’s Keep You Healthy, Together
The Medicare Wellness Visit is your chance to pause, plan, and protect your future health. At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we make this visit meaningful, respectful, and centered on you.
📍 Visit us at 4887 Williams Dr Ste 107, Georgetown TX
📞 Call 512.588.7008 or📲 Book online
Proudly, our Internal Medicine Primary Care Practice is Accepting new patients From:
Georgetown, Sun City, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Liberty Hill, Florence, Jarrell, Taylor, Hutto, Pflugerville, North Austin, Brushy Creek, Temple, Harker Heights, Bartram, Lampasas, Killeen, Lago Vista, and surrounding areas across Williamson County and North Austin TX
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