It’s not uncommon to have leg swelling after sitting or standing for an extended period. However, leg swelling may also be a symptom of an underlying cardiovascular problem. Maryland Cardiology Associates in Greenbelt, Maryland, offers advanced heart and vascular testing to find the root cause of your leg swelling to get you the right treatment. To schedule an evaluation, call the office or book an appointment online today.
Leg swelling may affect any part of your lower extremities, including your feet, ankles, calves, or thighs. The swelling may develop from excess fluid or inflammation in your legs.
Leg swelling may occur from any number of causes. In most cases, the swelling develops after spending prolonged periods of time sitting or standing. However, your leg swelling may also be a symptom of an underlying heart or vascular problem.
Some of the common cardiovascular conditions that cause leg swelling include:
Kidney disease may also cause leg swelling.
Though not always a medical emergency, if your leg swelling includes other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, you should seek emergency medical care.
Leg pain with these other symptoms may be signs of a cardiovascular problem, including a heart attack or pulmonary edema.
Maryland Cardiology Associates conducts a comprehensive cardiac exam when you come in with complaints of leg swelling. The goal of the exam is to identify any cardiac or vascular problem that may explain your symptom.
The detailed exam consists of three stages: observation, palpation, and auscultation. To gather all the necessary information your cardiologist needs to diagnose the root cause of your leg swelling, they may conduct various tests such as:
The professionals at Maryland Cardiology Associates are highly trained and take great steps to make you feel comfortable during your exam and testing.
Treatment for your leg swelling may depend on the underlying cause. Your cardiologist at Maryland Cardiology Associates customizes a plan to match your needs and goals.
Treatment may include:
Maryland Cardiology Associates also performs vascular procedures to treat various conditions that cause leg swelling, including atherectomy or angioplasty and stent placement for PAD.
To schedule your comprehensive cardiac exam at Maryland Cardiology Associates, call the office or book an appointment online today.