Many people, especially women, face problems such as leg swelling. The reasons for this phenomenon may be different. It is believed that they appear due to the large amount of fluid drunk during the day. Most often, the cause may be varicose veins, lymphovenous insufficiency or deep vein thrombosis. The second place is occupied by kidney and liver diseases. Next are factors such as joint problems, abdominal diseases, allergic reactions, oncology, lung pathology, and pregnancy. Swelling of the legs occurs with heart failure.
Due to the fact that the list of diseases in which swelling of the legs may appear is large, it will not be possible to make a diagnosis without analysis and instrumental diagnosis. The usual set of tests is given, plus a biochemical blood test is also done to them and blood coagulation is checked. It is also necessary to do an ultrasound of the abdominal organs, an ECG, an examination of blood vessels and veins (ultrasound), only then we can say why the swelling of the legs occurred.
With heart failure, in addition to swelling of the legs, there are other symptoms. The liquid impregnates the tissue and accumulates in the abdominal cavity, so the swelling is dense, with pressure there is a dimple. An increase in the liver is observed. In addition, shortness of breath, tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) appears, there may be cyanosis of the lips, pallor of the skin, any physical activity becomes a burden.
To remove
swelling of the legs with heart failure, do not immediately grab the diuretic drugs. They sometimes give the opposite effect, as they can disrupt the water-salt balance, which can adversely affect cardiac activity. Therefore, when signs appear, it is necessary to adjust the power. It is necessary to use less salt, not more than two grams per day. The amount of water consumed must be reduced. On average, no more than one liter per day, this applies to the volume of all fluid. Foods with a high content of potassium must be in the diet: rice, oatmeal, baked potatoes, bananas, dried fruits (dried apricots, prunes, raisins). It is good to take infusions and decoctions of rose hips - it is rich in vitamins of groups B and C, this will strengthen the walls of blood vessels and have an anti-inflammatory effect.
If swelling of the legs with heart failure is excluded, and other causes of their occurrence are identified, then the specialist should prescribe the appropriate treatment. But there are general recommendations that will help to cope with this problem.
- It is necessary to alternate active activities with recreation. If the work is inactive (sitting or standing), you can do simple exercises - they are necessary so that there is normal blood circulation in the limbs (you need to change your position, do not sit for more than 30 minutes in one position). You can’t sit with your legs crossed — the superficial veins are squeezed.
- In the evening, tired legs need rest - they should be above head level for at least 15 minutes. This is a good way to promote the outflow of blood and fluid from the lower extremities.
- Foot massage, if possible.
- You can use massage baths with decoctions of herbs - this gives a good therapeutic effect.
- Wearing comfortable, comfortable, not narrow shoes. The heel should be no more than 5 cm.
- Remember that after 40 years, at least once a year, it is necessary to donate blood for analysis in order to catch the disease in the initial stage. Otherwise, you will need to look for the reasons why your legs swell, and you will have to take serious drugs until the end of your life.