Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Breathlessness And Swelling In The Legs Post Physical Activity?
Question: I have shortness of breath with any physical activity and my feet and legs have been swelling.
Brief Answer:
you should check kidneys and heart function
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
First, you should avoid long stranding, keep legs elevated when lying and reduce salt intake. Also, wear elastic stockings.
Well, there are few possible causes. I this is seen on both ankles then, it may indicate symptom of venous insufficiency, a condition in which blood inadequately moves up the veins from the legs and feet up to the heart.
Normally, the veins keep blood flowing upward with one-way valves. When these valves become damaged or weakened, the blood leaks back down the vessels and fluid is retained in the soft tissue of the lower legs, especially the ankles and feet.
Chronic venous insufficiency can lead to skin changes, skin ulcers, and infection. You should treat this with elastic stockings, keeping leg elevated and in severe caes you should see vascular surgeon for further treatment.
Second, in some cases it may insicate this heart or kidney disease. Ankles that swell in the evening could be a sign of retaining salt and water because of right-sidedheart failure. Kidney disease can also cause foot and ankle swelling.
When kidneys are not functioning properly, fluid can build up in the body.
. If your swelling is accompanied by other symptoms, including fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight gain, see your doctor right away. If you feel short of breath or have chest pain, pressure, or tightness, call doctor.
Wish you good health. Regards
you should check kidneys and heart function
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
First, you should avoid long stranding, keep legs elevated when lying and reduce salt intake. Also, wear elastic stockings.
Well, there are few possible causes. I this is seen on both ankles then, it may indicate symptom of venous insufficiency, a condition in which blood inadequately moves up the veins from the legs and feet up to the heart.
Normally, the veins keep blood flowing upward with one-way valves. When these valves become damaged or weakened, the blood leaks back down the vessels and fluid is retained in the soft tissue of the lower legs, especially the ankles and feet.
Chronic venous insufficiency can lead to skin changes, skin ulcers, and infection. You should treat this with elastic stockings, keeping leg elevated and in severe caes you should see vascular surgeon for further treatment.
Second, in some cases it may insicate this heart or kidney disease. Ankles that swell in the evening could be a sign of retaining salt and water because of right-sidedheart failure. Kidney disease can also cause foot and ankle swelling.
When kidneys are not functioning properly, fluid can build up in the body.
. If your swelling is accompanied by other symptoms, including fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight gain, see your doctor right away. If you feel short of breath or have chest pain, pressure, or tightness, call doctor.
Wish you good health. Regards
Note: For further inquiries on surgery procedure and its risks or complications book an appointment now
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
