Leg edema, or swelling, may develop in any part of your lower extremities, such as your thighs, calves and ankles. Leg edema is usually caused by either fluid retention or inflammation associated with damaged tissues. Leg swelling may be caused by relatively harmless factors, too, such as prolonged standing or sitting. Before taking nutritional supplements to help resolve your leg edema, meet with your primary care provider to discuss your treatment options.
Leg Edema
Numerous conditions may cause leg edema. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, varicose veins, venous insufficiency, leg infection, blood clots, poor nutrition, lower extremity surgery and lymphatic obstruction are all possible causes of leg swelling. Leg swelling, when it is accompanied by prolonged chest pain, breathing problems, confusion and dizziness, is an indication that you require emergency medical assistance. In many cases, leg swelling may be painless. Leg edema may be particularly common in older individuals.
Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional supplements may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating your leg edema, but more clinical research evidence may be required to further probe these supplements' true effectiveness for this health problem. UMMC states that both herbal and non-herbal supplements may be useful in treating your edema, or swelling, including grape-seed extract, bilberry, dandelion, magnesium, vitamin C, alpha-lipoic acid, omega-3 fatty acids and multivitamins. Alfalfa, pycnogenol and bromelain may also be beneficial.
A Commonly Used Supplement
Dandelion may be one of the most commonly used nutritional supplements in treating edema, including leg edema. According to Dr. Sharol TIlgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," dandelion possesses diuretic action and has been used in treating edema, high blood pressure and gout. UMMC recommends a dosage of 4 to 10 g of the dried dandelion leaf steeped in 1 cup of hot water. Avoid using this nutritional supplement if you are taking diuretic medications.
Considerations
Leg edema may be a sign of serious pathology that requires immediate medical intervention. If you experience unexplained swelling in your lower extremities, meet with your doctor as soon as possible to discuss the possible underlying causes of your health problem. Nutritional supplements may best be used as a supportive therapy in the treatment of leg edema. Avoid using nutritional supplements in place of more conventional therapies recommended by your primary care provider.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Leg Swelling
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Foot, Leg, and Ankle Swelling
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Edema
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
