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Foot, Leg, and Ankle Swelling
Alternate Names : Ankle Swelling, Edema - Peripheral, Peripheral Edema, Foot Swelling, Leg Swelling, Swelling of the Ankles - Feet - Legs
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What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office
Your doctor will take a medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination, with special attention to your heart, lungs, abdomen, legs, and feet.
Your doctor will ask questions like the following:
- What specific body parts swell? Your ankles, feet, legs? Above the knee or below?
- Do you have swelling at all times or is it worse in the morning or the evening?
- What makes your swelling better?
- What makes your swelling worse?
- Does the swelling get better when you elevate your legs?
- What other symptoms do you have?
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include the following:
The specific treatment will be directed at whatever underlying cause is found. Diuretics may be prescribed. These are effective in reducing the swelling but have some side effects. Home treatment for benign causes of leg swelling should be tried before drug therapy under medical supervision.
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Foot, Leg, and Ankle Swelling: Overview & Considerations
• Foot, Leg, and Ankle Swelling: Common Causes
• Foot, Leg, and Ankle Swelling: Home Care & Treatment
• Foot, Leg, and Ankle Swelling: Prevention
• Call your Health Care Provider if
• What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office
• Pictures & Images
Review Date : 9/21/2003
Reviewed By : Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma., and Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by David Webner, M.D., Department of Family Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (5/23/2003).
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