Health Tip: Unexplained Swelling

(HealthDay News) -- If you have swelling of the ankles, legs or feet, the cause isn''t always obvious.

Here, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, are some common causes of unusual swelling in these areas:

• Standing up for long periods.
• A side effect of your menstrual period.
• Being overweight.
• Being pregnant.
• Prolonged plane or car travel.
• An injury to the foot or ankle.
• Certain medications.

Swelling in the legs may also indicate serious conditions including failure of the heart, kidneys, or liver. So if you have unexplained swelling, see your doctor without delay.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Feb. 09, 2009

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