How many days does it take for leg swelling to subside after coming down from a plateau?

In general, leg swelling after descending from high altitudes usually resolves within 2 to 7 days. Specific details are as follows:

Leg swelling after coming down from high altitudes may be caused by lower limb edema due to altitude sickness. If a patient has poor physical health—such as lack of regular exercise or pre-existing conditions like chronic bronchitis—they may experience altitude sickness upon descent. Lower limb edema associated with altitude sickness is primarily due to significant hypoxia caused by the high-altitude environment. Usually, no medication is required; adequate rest and returning to lowland areas away from the oxygen-deficient environment will lead to spontaneous resolution within 2–7 days. However, if the edema is severe and interferes with daily activities, patients should follow medical advice and take medications such as meloxicam dispersible tablets or Zhuanggu Guanjie pills.

Patients with lower limb edema after high-altitude exposure can gently massage the swollen areas. They should avoid prolonged standing to prevent increased blood congestion in the legs and feet, which could worsen edema. It's important to get sufficient rest, avoid strenuous exercise, and refrain from long periods of walking. Patients experiencing discomfort should seek medical attention promptly and receive standardized treatment under a doctor’s guidance, which helps promote recovery.