Calf edema

Calf edema is an unpleasant condition in which fluid accumulates in certain parts of the body. We are happy to tell you more about its causes, symptoms, and treatment. Read on below.

What is calf edema?

Calf edema is the medical term for fluid retention in the lower leg. It can occur in various parts of the body, but most commonly in the arms, legs, ankles, knees, or calves. However, it can also occur in the lungs or abdomen. Excess fluid is normally drained via the veins. When there are problems with this drainage for any reason, fluid can remain in the tissues, leading to swelling. This is what is referred to as calf edema.

What causes it?

When not enough fluid is drained and fluid accumulates, we speak of edema. In the case of calf edema, this often results from various medical conditions. We list them below for you:

• Problems with blood drainage. This can be caused by thrombosis or by weakening of the blood vessels with age.
• Damage to the lymphatic vessels. This is also called lymphoedema.
• Damage to the blood vessels. This is also known as angioedema.
• Calf edema can result from a severe burn.
• A cellulitis infection can also cause calf edema.
• Treatment of (breast) cancer: radiation or surgery can damage lymph nodes. In some cases, they even need to be removed.

What symptoms may occur?

There are several symptoms that can indicate calf edema. We list a number of them for you below:

• Fluid retention in the ankles, feet, legs, arms, or calves.
• A tight feeling at the site of the swelling.
• Swollen eyes.
• Shortness of breath.
• Fatigue.
• Shortness of breath during exertion or when lying flat.
• Gaining one or two kilograms within a few days.

How is calf edema diagnosed?

The diagnosis is made by your treating physician through a physical examination. The doctor looks for the specific characteristics of edema. In some cases, the doctor may choose to perform lymphoscintigraphy. This involves using a radioactive substance to create a clear image of your lymphatic system. In this way, it can be quite clearly determined whether it is calf edema or not.

What treatments are available?

It is important to determine the exact cause of the calf edema. In addition, there are a few general recommendations that can help reduce the symptoms. We list them for you below:

• Be cautious with salt intake. Consuming too much salt can lead to increased fluid retention and raised blood pressure.
• Get enough exercise. By staying active, your circulation is stimulated, which helps with fluid drainage. Aim to move for at least 30 minutes a day. After this, consider taking a contrast shower, alternating between hot and cold water. This has a very positive effect on your circulation.
• Your doctor may prescribe diuretics to help your kidneys excrete more salt. This helps draw fluid out of the tissues. The fluid is then eliminated through urine.
• Wear support stockings or compression stockings. These stockings apply pressure to your legs, which stimulates blood circulation and helps prevent fluid build-up in the calves.