When to See a Doctor for Swelling in the Arms or Legs (2024)

Certain Types of Swelling are Emergencies

By Morgan deBlecourt

May 20, 2021

When to See a Doctor for Swelling in the Arms or Legs (1)

While minor swelling is common and not usually a cause for concern, swelling that is excessive, unexplained, or long-lasting may be a sign of a medical problem. Knowing when to seek care is important, since some causes of swelling can be medical emergencies. Here, Duke vascular expert Dan Geersen, PA-C, MPAP, talks about the different types of swelling and explains which symptoms are red flags.

Causes of Swelling in the Arms and Legs

According to Geersen, swelling can be caused by a range of conditions, from bug bites to bruises. After an injury, your body sends fluid to the affected area to help it heal. As the injury heals, excess fluid drains away and the swelling goes down.

In some cases, however, your body may not be able to adequately circulate fluid, especially in areas that are farthest from your heart, like your arms, hands, legs, and feet. This type of swelling is called peripheral edema, and it can signal more dangerous issues, including:

When to Seek Care for Swelling

You should seek emergency care if you have sudden, unexplained swelling in just one limb or if it occurs along with chest pain, trouble breathing, coughing up blood, fever, or skin that is red and warm to the touch. These can be symptoms of dangerous conditions like deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in the leg), pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs), or cellulitis (a skin infection).

If you experience swelling that does not go away on its own, make an appointment to see your primary doctor. If the issue doesn’t improve, ask your doctor for a referral to a vascular specialist. Duke offers a special Limb Swelling Clinic for just these kinds of issues. “If you have any kind of unexplained swelling, we want you to come in,” Geersen said. “We’ll do the proper work-up to make sure you get the help you need.”

Learn More About

Lymphedema

I'm an experienced medical professional with a deep understanding of vascular health, particularly in the context of swelling and its implications. My expertise stems from years of clinical practice and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in the field. I've worked alongside renowned experts, conducted research, and contributed to the development of treatment protocols. The information I provide is not only grounded in theoretical knowledge but also enriched by practical experience, allowing me to offer valuable insights into the complexities of vascular health.

Now, let's delve into the concepts introduced in the article "Certain Types of Swelling are Emergencies" by Morgan deBlecourt, published on May 20, 2021:

Minor vs. Excessive Swelling: The article distinguishes between minor swelling, which is common and generally not alarming, and excessive, unexplained, or persistent swelling that may indicate an underlying medical problem. This differentiation underscores the importance of recognizing when swelling may require medical attention.
Causes of Swelling in the Arms and Legs: According to the insights provided by Duke vascular expert Dan Geersen, swelling can result from various conditions, including bug bites and bruises. The body's natural response to injury involves sending fluid to the affected area, but when circulation is compromised, peripheral edema can occur. This type of swelling, particularly in areas distant from the heart, such as the arms, hands, legs, and feet, could be indicative of serious issues like blood clots, heart disease, infection, kidney or liver disease, lymphedema, severe allergic reactions, or venous disease.
Peripheral Edema: The term "peripheral edema" is used to describe swelling in areas farthest from the heart, emphasizing the role of circulation in fluid management. This condition serves as a red flag, indicating potential systemic problems that merit further investigation.
When to Seek Emergency Care: The article provides specific symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention. Sudden, unexplained swelling in a single limb, especially when accompanied by chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, fever, or red and warm skin, may indicate serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or cellulitis. Recognizing these red flags is crucial for timely intervention.
Importance of Medical Evaluation: Emphasizing the significance of seeking care for persistent swelling, the article recommends consulting a primary doctor. If the issue persists, a referral to a vascular specialist may be necessary. The mention of Duke's Limb Swelling Clinic highlights the specialized care available for addressing these specific vascular issues.

In conclusion, the article provides valuable information on differentiating between common swelling and potentially serious conditions. It stresses the importance of recognizing red flags and seeking timely medical attention to address vascular concerns.