Causes of oedema

It's normal to havesome swelling in yourlegs at the end of the day, particularly if you've been sitting or standing for long periods.

Oedema is often a symptom of an underlying health condition. It can occur as a result of the following conditions or treatments:

  • pregnancy
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • heart failure
  • chronic lung disease
  • thyroid disease
  • liver disease
  • malnutrition
  • medication, such as corticosteroids or medicine for high blood pressure (hypertension)
  • the contraceptive pill

Immobility and standing for long periods are the twomost common causes of oedema in the legs.

Other possible causes include:

  • a blood clot
  • severe varicose veins
  • a leginjury or leg surgery
  • burns to the skin
Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018