If you’ve noticed that one of your legs looks larger than the other, even slightly, pay attention. Uneven leg swelling can develop for several reasons, ranging from an injury or fluid buildup to a problem with the veins. One important possibility is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in a deep vein that can become life-threatening if part of the clot travels to the lungs.
Understanding the cause of leg swelling is an important part of determining the right next step, and CardioVascular Institute of the Rockies is here to help. The location of the swelling, how quickly it appeared, and whether you have pain or other symptoms can all help guide an evaluation.
What Causes Swelling in Just One Leg?
Swelling occurs when fluid accumulates in the tissues. When it affects one leg more than the other, the cause may involve a localized injury or a problem with blood flow or fluid drainage.
Common possibilities include:
- Deep vein thrombosis: A blood clot obstructs blood flow through a deep vein.
- Chronic venous insufficiency: Vein valves do not move blood back toward the heart efficiently, allowing fluid to collect.
- Injury or inflammation: A sprain, muscle strain, or other injury can cause swelling in the affected leg.
- Lymphedema: A problem with the lymphatic system prevents fluid from draining properly.
- Infection: An infection in the skin or underlying tissues can cause swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness.
Heart, kidney, and other systemic conditions can also cause leg swelling, although they more commonly affect both legs. One-sided swelling does not identify the cause on its own, so an evaluation may be needed.
Could a Blood Clot Be Causing the Swelling?
DVT is one of the most important causes to rule out, particularly when swelling develops suddenly or has no clear explanation. Other symptoms may include pain or tenderness, warmth, and red or discolored skin. However, a clot can sometimes develop with few noticeable symptoms.
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute advises seeking prompt medical attention for symptoms that may indicate a blood clot, including a swollen, tender leg. DVT matters because a clot can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism.
If one leg suddenly becomes swollen without an obvious explanation, seek urgent medical evaluation rather than waiting to see if it improves. If swelling occurs with sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, or fainting, call 911.
How Do Providers Determine the Cause?
The evaluation starts with your symptoms and medical history. Your provider may ask when the swelling began, whether it is painful, whether you’ve recently traveled or had surgery, and whether you have a history of blood clots or vein problems.
A physical examination can help identify tenderness, skin changes, and differences in the size or temperature of the legs. If DVT is suspected, a venous ultrasound is commonly used to look for a clot. Other tests may be appropriate depending on the findings.
When the problem appears related to chronic venous insufficiency or another circulation issue, further vascular evaluation can help determine how blood is moving through the affected vessels.
When Should You Be Concerned About Leg Swelling?
New, unexplained swelling in one leg deserves prompt medical attention, especially when accompanied by pain, warmth, redness, or tenderness. Persistent swelling should also be evaluated, even if it is not painful.
Do not assume that swelling is simply from standing too long or sitting for an extended period. The cause matters because treatment varies considerably. A blood clot, for example, requires a different approach than chronic vein disease or an injury.
Get the Right Evaluation for Uneven Leg Swelling
One leg being more swollen than the other is not always a sign of a serious condition, but it should not be ignored. Identifying the cause helps determine whether treatment is needed and which approach is appropriate.
Reach out to CardioVascular Institute of the Rockies today if you are experiencing unexplained or recurring leg swelling so that we can discuss setting up an evaluation. Seek urgent care for sudden swelling, and call 911 if you develop symptoms that could indicate a pulmonary embolism.
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