What Causes Leg Swelling in Heart Failure?
Disease description:
My mother’s heart failure has become quite severe, and I’m unsure why her legs have started to swell—could you explain what’s happening?
Doctor's answer (2)
Dr. Liu Shilei
During acute heart failure episodes, most patients develop bilateral lower limb edema. This results from severe systemic venous congestion and sodium–water retention commonly seen in heart failure. When venous return from the lower extremities is impaired, patients may present with edema involving both feet and lower limbs. Prompt treatment with positive inotropic agents and diuretics, along with symptomatic management, is essential to rapidly alleviate the condition.
