Common causes and warning signs of swollen legs

Swollen legs, or inflammation of the lower extremities, can be caused by various medical factors. Poor blood circulation is a primary cause, as blood must travel against gravity from the legs back to the heart. When this return process is difficult, fluid retention can occur in the feet and legs.

According to medical experts, common contributing factors include obesity, which can lead to venous insufficiency and edema, and high cholesterol, which may cause atherosclerosis. Other significant risks include excessive alcohol and tobacco consumption, hypertension resulting from heart failure, and family histories of atherosclerosis. Additionally, sedentary lifestyles, lack of physical activity, and renal, cardiac, or hepatic insufficiency are noted as potential causes.