Leg Swelling: Causes, Vein Disease, and Treatment in Los Angeles
Leg swelling (edema) is a common symptom that can range from mild puffiness in the ankles to severe fluid retention that makes it difficult to walk or wear shoes. While temporary swelling may occur after long flights or standing all day, persistent or worsening leg swelling is often a sign of an underlying medical condition. One of the most common causes is chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) — when the veins in the legs cannot return blood efficiently to the heart.
At the Vein & Wound Center of LA, we specialize in identifying whether vein disease is the cause of your swelling and provide effective, minimally invasive treatment options.
What Causes Leg Swelling?
Swelling in the legs can develop for many reasons, including:
- Venous insufficiency – blood pooling due to weakened vein valves
- Varicose veins and poor circulation
- Heart, kidney, or liver conditions leading to fluid retention
- Lymphedema (blockage in the lymphatic system)
- Injury, infection, or medications (e.g., blood pressure drugs)
When swelling is related to vein disease, it often:
- Worsens at the end of the day or after standing/sitting for long periods
- Improves with leg elevation or compression stockings
- Appears along with heaviness, aching, or visible varicose veins
Leg Swelling and Venous Insufficiency
With chronic venous insufficiency, damaged valves in the veins cause blood to flow backward and pool in the legs. This increases venous pressure, forcing fluid into surrounding tissues and leading to swelling.
Other symptoms that may accompany venous-related swelling include:
- Tightness or heaviness in the legs
- Skin changes, such as dryness, itching, or dark discoloration
- Burning, tingling, or cramping sensations
- In advanced cases, venous ulcers or chronic wounds
Treatment Options for Leg Swelling
At the Vein & Wound Center of LA, we offer both conservative care and advanced vein treatments to manage swelling and address the underlying cause.
Conservative Management
- Compression stockings to improve circulation
- Lifestyle changes (walking, hydration, weight management)
- Leg elevation several times a day to reduce pooling
Minimally Invasive Vein Treatments
- Endovenous thermal ablation – closing faulty veins with heat
- Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy – sealing veins with medication
- Varithena® foam therapy – effective for larger varicose veins
- Ambulatory phlebectomy – removal of bulging surface veins
These procedures are performed in-office under local anesthesia, with minimal downtime and excellent outcomes.
When to See a Vein Specialist
Seek care if you have:
- Frequent or persistent swelling in the legs or ankles
- Swelling combined with pain, skin changes, or visible varicose veins
- Symptoms that interfere with sleep, activity, or daily comfort
Early evaluation and treatment can help prevent complications and improve your quality of life.
Expert Vein Care in Los Angeles
At the Vein & Wound Center of LA, Dr. Christopher Kim and our team are dedicated to helping patients find relief from leg swelling caused by venous disease. We use state-of-the-art ultrasound diagnostics and minimally invasive treatments tailored to your needs.
👉 Call (213) 654-8346 today or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation.
