the area is painful, red, or warm.
Swelling in both legs that persists, keeps worsening, or repeatedly returns also deserves evaluation.
The Bottom Line
Swollen legs can reveal many different things about your health.
Sometimes the explanation is relatively simple—too much time sitting or standing, excess sodium, hot weather, or medication effects.
Other times, persistent or unusual swelling can be associated with venous insufficiency, kidney disease, liver disease, heart failure, lymphedema, or a blood clot.
The key isn’t to panic whenever your ankles look puffy.
Instead, pay attention to whether one or both legs are affected, how quickly the swelling appeared, whether it improves, and whether other symptoms are present.
Those details can help a healthcare professional identify the underlying cause.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
