What is leg swelling?
A person with leg swelling has enlargement of the legs, caused by excess fluid that has collected in the legs. Leg swelling may occur in one leg (unilateral) or in both legs (bilateral). Common causes of bilateral leg swelling in the elderly include congestive heart failure and venous insufficiency.

What are the symptoms of leg swelling?
Symptoms that may occur with leg swelling include pitting edema, weight gain, fever, skin redness, skin swelling, skin tenderness, and swollen lymph glands in the groin.

How does the doctor treat leg swelling?
The treatment for leg swelling depends on the underlying cause. Treatment for leg swelling may include elastic support hose, leg elevation, a low salt diet, weight loss, and diuretics. Additional treatment for leg swelling may include warm compresses, antibiotics, and blood thinners.