Swelling of the lower leg can occur as a result of a condition that directly affects the leg or as a result of organ failure that affects the whole body. Leg swelling is often accompanied by pain and tenderness to the touch. Generalizations about leg swelling and pain can be made by the characteristics of the symptoms. When lower leg swelling and pain occur in only one leg, it usually indicates a problem directly related to the leg, but when swelling and pain occur in both legs, it usually involves the organs, according to MedlinePlus.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis is a condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the thigh or lower leg, hindering proper blood flow, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Deep vein thrombosis can develop as a result of damage to the lining of the deep vein, thicker than normal blood or slow blood flow. The signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis occur only in the affected leg and include swelling of the leg and ankle, pain and tenderness in the lower leg, increased temperature of the affected leg, and discolored skin on the leg. Most cases of deep vein thrombosis are treated with anticoagulants, which decrease the blood's ability to clot. Thrombolytics, which dissolve existing blood clots, may be used if the existing blood clot is large. A stent may also be placed in the vena cava, which is a large vein in the body, to prevent the blood clot from travelling from the leg to the lungs.
Acute Kidney Failure
Acute kidney failure is the sudden loss of the kidneys' ability to properly filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. When the kidneys cannot filter properly, fluids, waste and salts build up in the body, which results in edema or generalized swelling, according to MayoClinic.com. Swelling is most apparent in the legs, ankles and feet but can also frequently be seen in the abdomen. Swelling is also accompanied by pain and tenderness, especially when walking. Other symptoms of acute kidney failure include decreased urine output, drowsiness, shortness of breath, fatigue, confusion, nausea and chest pain. Acute kidney failure occurs as a result of damage to the kidneys, slow blood flow or allergic reactions. MayoClinic.com notes that treatment for acute kidney failure almost always involves an overnight stay in the hospital during which the underlying cause for the kidney failure will be treated. Intravenous fluids and salts may also be administered to restore fluid balance.
Heart Failure
Heart failure is a condition that occurs when the heart can no longer pump enough blood to adequately meet the needs of the body. Heart failure usually develops gradually and can affect either side of the heart or a combination of both sides, according to MedlinePlus. Congenital heart disease, a previous heart attack and heart valve disease can all lead to heart failure. Because the heart cannot pump blood effectively, it may build up in other areas of the body, causing swelling of the abdomen, feet and ankles, accompanied by tenderness and pain. Other symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath, cough, weight gain, rapid pulse, heart palpitations, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, weakness and loss of appetite. Treatment for heart failure involves medications, lifestyle changes and surgery.
