Swelling of the legs and ankles, also known as peripheral edema, is the result of an abnormal accumulation of fluids in the tissues of the lower extremities. Underyling medical conditions, a traumatic injury to the legs, and certain medications can result in the build up of fluid in the interstitial space of the tissues. Treatment of the underlying disease, elevation of the legs and lifestyle changes can help alleviate swollen ankles and legs.
Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome is a medical condition characterized by swelling of the ankles and legs, notes MedlinePlus. Nephrotic syndrome may be caused by various disorders such as kidney failure or mononucleosis that result in the destruction of the basement membrane in the glomeruli of the kidneys. The glomeruli are the kidney's primary filtration capillary, filtering waste products from the blood. Destruction of the blood vessels in the kidney and glomeruli results in the accumulation of proteins and waste products in the blood. An increase in the level of proteins such as albumin in the blood results in an increase in the blood pressure. A rise in blood pressure forces the kidneys to release chemicals such as aldosterone that cause the accumulation fluid in the blood resulting in peripheral edema.
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Peripheral artery disease is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of fatty deposits in the inner linings the arteries, primarily in the arteries that carry blood to the legs, arms and kidneys. The arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the tissues and cells of the body. Atherosclerosis occurs as fatty deposits and plaque accumulate in the lining of the arteries, narrowing and obstructing the flow of blood to the lower extremities. The narrowing of the arteries results in leakage of fluid into the interstitial space of the tissues in the legs and ankles. This abnormal accumulation of fluids in the lower extremities results in swelling of the legs and ankles.
Endocarditis
Endocarditis is a medical disorder characterized by an infection of the inside lining of the heart valves, heart muscle and heart chambers. Bacterial or fungal organisms may gain systemic access to the heart through the mouth, injection drug use or central venous access lines. These pathogenic organisms destroy the heart valves impairing the ability of the heart to pump oxygenated blood to the lower extremities. According to MayoClinic.com, symptoms commonly associated with endocarditis include fatigue, chills, shortness of breath, swelling of the legs, feet and abdomen.
