"What Causes Swelling in Feet and Lower Limbs?"
Edema in feet and lower extremities may be caused by physiological factors, varicose veins of lower extremities, nephrotic syndrome, liver cirrhosis, heart failure, etc. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive corresponding treatment measures under the guidance of a doctor. Details are as follows:
1. Physiological Factors:
Prolonged standing may lead to poor blood circulation in the lower extremities, which is a normal phenomenon. It can be relieved through hot compresses as instructed by a doctor. Soak a towel in water at 40-50°C, wring it out, and place the hot towel on the feet or the edematous area of the lower extremities. The duration of the hot compress should be about 15-20 minutes, and can be repeated multiple times a day.
2. Varicose Veins of Lower Extremities:
It may be related to factors such as venous sclerosis and venous valve dysfunction. This can cause blockage of blood vessels in the lower extremities, leading to swelling, accompanied by abnormal sensations in the lower extremities. In severe cases, it can lead to varicose veins rupture and bleeding. Patients with concurrent edema need to undergo surgical treatments such as high ligation of the great saphenous vein and subcutaneous varicose vein transilluminated powered phlebectomy under the guidance of a doctor.
3. Nephrotic Syndrome:
Patients with nephrotic syndrome experience a large amount of proteinuria, which leads to a decrease in plasma colloid osmotic pressure, causing edema. Accumulation of excess fluid in the body also contributes to edema, particularly in the lower extremities and feet. In this case, medications such as Mycophenolate Mofetil Tablets, Prednisone Acetate Tablets, and Cyclosporine Soft Capsules should be used as directed by a doctor.
4. Liver Cirrhosis:
Due to impaired protein synthesis, patients with liver cirrhosis experience a decrease in plasma colloid osmotic pressure, allowing water from the blood to enter tissue spaces, causing edema in the lower extremities and feet. Additionally, patients with liver cirrhosis may also experience portal hypertension, which obstructs blood flow in the portal venous system, leading to poor venous blood return in the lower extremities and causing swelling. Treatments such as Compound Glycyrrhizin Capsules, Entecavir Tablets, and Furosemide Injection should be administered as prescribed.
5. Heart Failure:
It may be related to factors such as hypertension and coronary heart disease. Heart failure can cause water and sodium retention, leading to edema in the lower extremities and feet. Symptoms may also include dyspnea, weight gain, nausea, and can be life-threatening in severe cases. In such cases, medications that strengthen the heart and promote diuresis, such as Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, Furosemide Tablets, and Digoxin Tablets, should be used as prescribed by a doctor.
It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, avoid prolonged standing or sitting, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid overexertion to promote good health.