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| Definition: | Peripheral edema is an abnormal build-up of fluids in ankle and leg tissues. See also swelling, overall.
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| Alternative Names: | Swelling of the ankles - feet - legs; Ankle swelling; Foot swelling; Leg swelling; Edema - peripheral
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| Considerations: | Painless swelling of the feet and ankles is a common problem, particularly in older people. It may affect both legs and may include the calves or even the thighs. Because of the effect of gravity, swelling is particularly noticeable in the lower legs.
When squeezed, the fluid will move out of the affected area and may leave a deep impression for a few moments.
Swelling of the legs is many times related to systemic causes (for example, heart failure, renal failure, or liver failure).
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| Common Causes: | - Long airplane flights or automobile rides
- Menstrual periods (for some women)
- Sunburn
- Generalized allergy
- Prolonged standing
- Injury or trauma to the ankle or foot
- Venous insufficiency (varicose veins)
- Pregnancy (mild to severe swelling)
- Environmental
- Medical treatments
- Body fluid overload
- Infiltration of an IV site
- Extremity surgery
- Medications
- Estrogens and progestin oral contraceptives
- Blood pressure-lowering drugs
- Certain antidepressants (such as Nardil)
- Estrogen - oral
- Long-term corticosteroid therapy
- Nifedipine
- Testosterone
- Diagnostic tests
- Congestive heart failure
- Glomerulonephritis or other kinds of kidney disorders
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Review Date: 10/27/2001
Reviewed By: Jeffrey Heit, M.D., Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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