Concerns about swollen legs
Ask the doctor
This symptom, called edema, occurs because the heart doesn't have enough pumping power to force blood back up from the lower extremities. Often, the swelling is most noticeable in the ankles. But it can spread up the legs and even to the lower abdomen. More serious cases can cause what's known as pitting edema: if you press a finger into the swollen area, it briefly leaves an indentation or pit.
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