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) — a vein condition where the veins in the legs cannot return blood efficiently to the heart.
At the Vein & Wound Center of LA, Dr. Christopher Kim evaluates whether vein disease is contributing to your swelling and provides minimally invasive treatment options that support long-term leg health.
What Causes Leg Swelling?
Leg swelling can occur for many different reasons, and understanding the underlying cause is important for determining the right type of care. Some of the most common causes include:
• 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, certain patterns may appear. These helpful clues include:
• Swelling that worsens at the end of the day or after periods of standing or sitting
• Improvement with leg elevation or compression stockings
• Heaviness, aching, or visible varicose veins
Types of Leg Swelling: What Your Symptoms Mean
Different types of swelling can point toward different causes. Recognizing these patterns can help guide diagnosis:
• Pitting edema: Leaves an indentation when pressed; commonly linked to venous insufficiency or fluid retention
• Non-pitting edema: Often associated with lymphedema or chronic inflammatory changes
• Unilateral swelling: Swelling on one side may indicate vein blockage, post-thrombotic syndrome, or DVT
• Bilateral swelling: Both legs swelling may suggest systemic causes or venous hypertension
• Swelling that worsens through the day: A classic sign of venous insufficiency
Leg Swelling and Venous Insufficiency
When vein valves stop working properly, blood flows backward and pools in the legs. This raises venous pressure and pushes fluid into surrounding tissues, causing swelling. Venous swelling is often accompanied by additional symptoms, such as:
• Tightness or heaviness in the legs
• Skin changes, including dryness, itching, or dark discoloration
• Burning, tingling, or cramping sensations
• Chronic wounds or venous ulcers in advanced cases
How Leg Swelling Progresses When Vein Disease Is the Cause
Over time, untreated venous insufficiency can lead to noticeable changes in the legs. These may include:
• Swelling that becomes more consistent and harder to reduce
• Thickening or hardening of the skin (lipodermatosclerosis)
• Increased inflammation and discomfort
• Higher risk of ulcer formation near the ankles
Why an Ultrasound Is Essential for Diagnosis
A duplex ultrasound is the most accurate way to identify vein-related swelling. This non-invasive test provides valuable information, such as:
• Whether vein valves are working correctly
• Whether hidden blockages or compression are present
• How blood is flowing through the superficial and deep veins
• Which veins are contributing to swelling and may need treatment
How Venous Swelling Differs From Lymphedema
These conditions may look similar, but they behave differently. Key distinctions include:
• Venous swelling often improves with elevation; lymphedema does not
• Lymphedema typically involves swelling of the foot and toes
• Venous insufficiency usually affects the ankle and lower leg first
Conditions That Can Coexist With Venous Swelling
Some patients have more than one cause of swelling. Conditions that may occur alongside venous insufficiency include:
• Lymphedema
• Medication-related swelling
• Post-thrombotic syndrome
• Obesity-related swelling
• Orthopedic injuries that worsen venous pressure
Home Strategies to Reduce Swelling
At-home steps can help lessen swelling and support circulation between medical visits. These strategies may include:
• Walking daily to activate the calf muscle pump
• Performing ankle pumps and calf stretches
• Using compression stockings if recommended
• Elevating the legs above heart level for short periods
• Avoiding long periods of sitting or standing
• Reducing salt intake to limit fluid retention
Treatment Options for Leg Swelling
At the Vein & Wound Center of LA, we offer both conservative care and minimally invasive vein treatments. Treatment plans begin with identifying the cause of swelling and then choosing the most appropriate interventions.
Conservative Management
Conservative care can help reduce swelling and support venous circulation. These measures often include:
• Compression stockings
• Walking, hydration, and healthy weight maintenance
• Leg elevation several times during the day
Minimally Invasive Vein Treatments
When venous insufficiency is confirmed, procedures may be recommended to address the underlying problem. Options include:
• Endovenous thermal ablation – closing refluxing veins using heat
• Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy – sealing veins with medication
• Varithena® foam therapy – a foam option for treating larger varicose veins
• Ambulatory phlebectomy – removal of bulging surface veins
What Vein Treatments Cannot Fix
Some forms of swelling have causes unrelated to venous disease. Vein treatments do not resolve swelling from:
• Heart, kidney, or liver disease
• Medications that cause fluid retention
• Primary lymphedema
• Cellulitis or acute infection
Long-Term Outlook With Treatment
Many individuals notice meaningful improvement after treating venous reflux. Ongoing improvements may include:
• Reduced swelling and heaviness
• Healthier skin around the ankles
• Lower risk of future ulcers
• Better comfort during daily activities
When to See a Vein Specialist
Certain symptoms make an evaluation particularly important. Consider scheduling an appointment if you have:
• Frequent or persistent swelling
• Swelling with pain, skin discoloration, or bulging veins
• Symptoms limiting sleep, comfort, or activity
Why Choose Vein & Wound Center of LA for Leg Swelling Care
• Specialized Vein Expertise: Dr. Christopher Kim evaluates swelling through the lens of venous function, using clinical training in both vein disease and wound care to identify underlying causes that may be missed elsewhere.
• Accurate Diagnosis: We use duplex ultrasound to map blood flow, locate refluxing veins, and differentiate venous swelling from other conditions such as lymphedema or systemic fluid retention.
• Minimally Invasive Treatment Options: We offer evidence-based procedures—including thermal ablation, foam, and sclerotherapy—to address the root cause of venous swelling when indicated.
• Comprehensive Approach: We assess symptoms, lifestyle factors, and skin changes to build a plan that supports long-term leg health and reduces the risk of complications.
• Convenient Koreatown Location: Our Los Angeles office provides free garage parking and an accessible setting for ongoing care and follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is all leg swelling caused by vein disease?
Not always. While vein disease is a common cause, swelling can also stem from heart, kidney, medication-related, or lymphatic conditions.
How do I know if my swelling is from venous insufficiency?
Swelling that worsens throughout the day, improves with elevation, or occurs with heaviness or visible veins may suggest venous insufficiency.
Do I need an ultrasound to determine the cause of swelling?
An ultrasound is recommended when venous insufficiency is suspected, as it is the best way to evaluate blood flow and valve function.
Can vein treatment reduce leg swelling?
Yes. When swelling is caused by venous reflux, treating the underlying issue often reduces or resolves the symptoms.
Should I be concerned if only one leg is swollen?
One-sided swelling may indicate a blockage or a prior clot and should be evaluated.
Can I have venous swelling if I don’t see varicose veins?
Yes. Some patients have venous reflux without visible surface veins.
Do compression stockings always help?
Compression is often helpful for venous-related swelling but should be used based on your provider’s guidance.
Can untreated venous swelling cause long-term problems?
Long-standing swelling can contribute to skin thickening, inflammation, and the development of venous ulcers.
Treat Leg Swelling Caused By Vein Issues
If you’re experiencing swelling that is persistent, uncomfortable, or affecting your daily life, our practice is here to help. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Christopher Kim at the Vein & Wound Center of LA, call (213) 654-8346.
