AskDocDoc
/
/
/
Why do legs swell due to kidney problem?
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Kidney & Urinary Health
Question #12367
46 days ago
130

Why do legs swell due to kidney problem? - #12367

Rudra

I am kinda freaked out because my legs have been swelling up like crazy lately, and I'm pretty sure it has something to do with kidney issues. Few weeks ago, I started feeling this heaviness in my legs, like they were filled with lead, and I brushed it off at first. But then I noticed my ankles were puffed up. I went to the doc for my annual checkup, and they did some blood tests and all that. Turns out my kidney function isn't what it should be. The doctor mentioned something about how when kidneys aren't working right, they can mess with fluid balance, which is why I’m seeing this swelling, but I didn't fully grasp it. The swelling is really uncomfortable, and sometimes I feel a bit of pain. It’s just annoying sitting there trying to put on my shoes. Why do legs swell due to kidney problem anyway? How does that all link up? If my kidneys are struggling, does that mean there could be more serious issues? I'm already trying to cut back on salty stuff and drink more water. Anyway, if anyone could shed light on this kidney-related leg swelling, I would totally appreciate the help. Feels like I'm going in circles here trying to figure it out!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

Kidneys are there to help maintain your body’s balance of fluids and electrolytes by filtering waste and excess water from your blood. When kidney function declines, several processes can get messed up, leading to swelling of the legs—often termed “edema”. This happens because the kidneys aren’t able to efficiently remove extra fluid and sodium from your body, leading to fluid buildup in your tissues. This fluid retention particularly likes to show itself in lower extremities like your legs and ankles due to gravity. If your kidneys are compromised, proteins like albumin, which normally help keep fluid in your bloodstream, can also leak into the urine. Without enough albumin in your blood, fluid can seep into surrounding tissues, further contributing to that frustrating swelling. Now, about your concern regarding more serious issues, it’s true that reduced kidney function can lead to various complications. It’s crucial to monitor any concerning symptoms or changes, like sudden increases in swelling, difficulty breathing, or changes in urine output, which might indicate worsening kidney function and need more urgent review. You’re doing a good thing by cutting back on salty foods since excess sodium in your diet can exacerbate fluid retention. Keep hydrating well, but be cautious with fluid intake if your doctor has advised limits. Keeping your legs elevated when sitting can also help reduce swelling. Stay in touch with your healthcare provider to track progression, and make sure to follow their advice on any treatments or medications they recommend. If things escalate or you’re uncertain, don’t hesitate to reach out for medical attention promptly.

6047 answered questions
74% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions