Edema is the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the body tissues. When edema is present in the leg and foot, it is referred to as peripheral edema. Peripheral edema causes the tissues to enlarge and results in a visible swelling of the leg and foot. Although swelling in the leg and foot may not seem like a serious problem, it may indicate damage to the major organs.
Lymphedema
The lymphatic system is a major part of the immune system that filters waste and infectious organisms from the body. The lymph nodes are the vessels that drain the fluid and allow the cells of the immune system to travel throughout the body. A lymphatic obstruction, also referred to as lymphedema, is a blockage of the lymph nodes. When the lymph nodes are blocked, they cannot properly drain fluid. This results in swelling of the leg, foot and arm. A lymphatic obstruction can be caused by infections, injury, radiation therapy, surgery and tumors. MedlinePlus notes that the most common cause of a lymphatic obstruction in Western societies is the removal of the breasts and lymph tissue. Most cases can be treated with a combination of specialized lymph massages, compression and physical therapy. If these treatment methods are ineffective, surgery may be needed to drain the lymph nodes and replace damaged tissue.
Pericarditis
Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericarditis, which is the thin membrane that surrounds the heart muscle. Most cases of pericarditis are acute, which means they develop suddenly and the inflammation does not last for an extended period of time. Usually, the cause of pericarditis is unknown, but prior heart attacks, autoimmune disorders, trauma and infections are believed to play a role, notes MayoClinic.com. The initial symptom of percarditis is pain in the chest. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, low fever, weakness, fatigue and edema, especially in the leg, foot and abdomen. Mild cases of pericarditis do not usually require treatment. When treatment is necessary, it generally consists of pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications. MayoClinic.com notes that if a bacterial infection is causing the pericarditis, antibiotics will also be given.
Acute Kidney Failure
The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste out of the fluid in the body and concentrating urine. Acute kidney failure is the sudden loss of kidney function, which may be caused by chronic diseases, infections, trauma or complications from pregnancy. When the kidneys cannot function properly, fluid begins to accumulate in the cells, causing edema. The edema associated with acute kidney failure is most apparent in the legs, feet and ankles, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Other symptoms include breath odor, bloody stools, easy bruising, fatigue, metallic taste in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, nosebleeds, seizures, changes in urination and confusion. Those with acute kidney failure usually require hospitalization for medical care. Treatment consists of diuretics, intravenous administration of electrolytes and minerals, special diets and antibiotics. In some cases, dialysis may be needed to remove potassium from the body.
