The heart failure patient's leg swelling has already risen above the knees.

Heart failure refers to the condition in which the heart's ability to pump blood is impaired. In general, when leg swelling in patients with heart failure has reached or exceeded the knees, it may be related to factors such as fluid retention, venous congestion, hypoalbuminemia, lymphadenopathy, or deep vein thrombosis, and targeted treatments should be applied accordingly. If any of these conditions are present, prompt medical attention is recommended. Specific details are as follows:

1. Fluid Retention

Heart failure leads to reduced cardiac pumping function and impaired circulation, causing blood to stagnate in tissues and resulting in fluid retention. This fluid buildup causes leg edema, and patients may also experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, pulmonary congestion, and weight gain. Appropriate outdoor activities may help improve circulation and alleviate symptoms.

2. Venous Congestion

Impaired cardiac pumping in heart failure leads to venous congestion, making it difficult for blood to return from tissues back to the heart, thus promoting fluid leakage into surrounding tissues. Venous congestion may cause leg swelling, pain, a sensation of pressure, and changes in skin color. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as Maitol (horse chestnut extract) tablets, Xueshuantong injection, or sodium aescinate tablets to relieve symptoms.

3. Hypoalbuminemia

Patients with heart failure often have concurrent liver or kidney dysfunction, leading to protein loss. Hypoalbuminemia can cause proteins to leak from blood vessels into tissues, increasing fluid exudation and resulting in leg edema. It may also lead to generalized edema, weakness, and muscle damage. Under medical guidance, medications such as lamivudine tablets, calcium carbonate D3 tablets, and zinc gluconate tablets may be used for treatment.

4. Lymphadenopathy

Heart failure not only affects blood circulation but may also disrupt normal lymphatic drainage. Impaired lymphatic flow can lead to fluid accumulation in tissues, causing leg swelling, possibly accompanied by enlarged lymph nodes and skin changes. Treatment may include antibiotics such as cefalexin capsules, roxithromycin granules, or penicillin V potassium tablets, as advised by a physician.

5. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Due to blood stasis, patients with heart failure are at increased risk of thrombus formation, particularly deep vein thrombosis. DVT can cause leg swelling, pain, and increased local temperature. If a clot dislodges, it may lead to pulmonary embolism. Medical treatment such as thrombectomy may be required.

In daily life, patients with heart failure should ensure adequate rest and maintain a light diet to support heart health.