Leg, ankle and foot swelling is often considered common and dismissed as nothing serious, citing its causes to be sitting too long, standing too long, eating a salty dinner, etc. However, persistent or increasingly serious swelling, which doctors refer to as ‘edema’, may warn of a serious issue such as kidney disease.
Dr Manas Ranjan Pradhan, Senior Consultant, Urologist, Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneshwar, explains, “The kidneys are essential to maintain the fluid balance in the body through filtration of waste and excess fluid from the blood. As kidney function falls, the body is unable to expel this excess fluid, and it accumulates in tissues—most commonly in the lower limbs. This causes evident swelling, which is most prominent around the ankles and feet.”
Signs to look out for
Not all swelling signifies kidney disease, but certain symptoms and characteristics may be alarming. Dr Pradhan shares the following warning signs to look out for:
Worsening or unrelenting swelling: Swelling that does not subside or gets worse on resting, or after changes in diet or lifestyle, might indicate kidney disease.
Swelling around the eyes: Fluid build-up can be seen as face swelling, most commonly around the eyes — one of the earliest signs of kidney disease.
Foamy or coloured urine: A distortion of urine colour may be associated with kidney-related swelling, signifying protein loss (proteinuria), a signature of kidney injury.
Fatigue and shortness of breath: Swelling can spread to the lungs, and there may be shortness of breath and tiredness.
“A variety of kidney conditions can cause fluid retention, including chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury,” informs Dr Pradhan.
When to see a doctor
It is essential to be aware of signs and seek timely medical attention when required. “If you have ongoing swelling, particularly if it is accompanied by other signs such as changes in urination, tiredness or breathlessness, it is important to get medical assessment. Early detection of kidney disease can avoid further complications and enhance outcomes,” the doctor explains.
Prevention and management
Although treatment options vary with the cause, changes in lifestyle can assist in managing fluid build-up and subsequent swelling.
Dr Pradhan shares the following tips:
Decrease salt consumption: Excess sodium may lead to fluid build-up, aggravating swelling.
Stay hydrated: Adequate hydration maintains kidney function and avoids fluid imbalances.
Monitor blood pressure and blood sugar: Hypertension and diabetes are major causes of kidney disease.
Exercise regularly: Exercise improves circulation and avoids fluid accumulation in the lower limbs.
Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Kindly consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.