Repeated swelling in the leg is a sign of this serious disease, run to the doctor immediately.

Swelling in the legs, which is called edema in medical language, means that excess fluid has accumulated in the tissues of your body. When the body’s circulatory system or organs are not functioning properly, this fluid begins to collect in the feet and ankles due to downward gravity. This may be a protective way of the body to alert you that something is wrong.

One of the most serious reasons behind this swelling can be heart disease. When your heart is unable to pump blood through the body at its full capacity, blood starts pooling back in the veins, causing swelling in the legs. If you feel difficulty in breathing, fatigue or chest pain along with swelling, then consider it as an emergency and contact the doctor immediately.

Another major reason is kidney disease. Our kidneys work to remove excess water and salt from the body. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, sodium and water levels in the body increase, which can cause swelling in the feet, ankles and under the eyes. If you notice a change in your urination habits, it is a clear indication of getting your kidneys checked.

Liver related problems can also cause swelling in the feet. The liver makes a protein called albumin, which prevents fluid from leaking out of the blood vessels. When the liver suffers from cirrhosis or other problems, albumin levels drop, causing fluid to leak into the surrounding tissues and cause swelling in the legs. Taking it lightly can be dangerous.

Apart from this, vein related diseases like deep vein thrombosis can also be very dangerous. In this, blood clots accumulate in the deep veins of the legs. If there is sudden severe swelling, pain or redness in only one leg, then one should be alerted immediately. If this clot breaks and reaches the lungs, it can prove fatal.

If there are symptoms like pain, shortness of breath, decreased urination or severe swelling in one leg along with swelling, then instead of home remedies, go to the doctor immediately. Timely diagnosis and treatment can not only solve your problem but can also save you from major health complications in the future.