The evaluation of swelling begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with swelling may include:

• Enlargement of part of the body
• Pitting edema:
• Pressure from a fingertip leaves a fingerprint in the skin

Tests that may be used to evaluate swelling include:

• Electrolyte profile
• Kidney profile
• Liver function tests
• Thyroid profile
• Chest x-ray may show:
• Normal chest x-rays
• Enlarged heart
• Heart failure
• Electrocardiogram