✅Prolonged standing or sitting
Gravity pulls fluid down — common during travel or desk work
✅High sodium diet
Salt makes your body retain water
✅Hormonal changes
PMS, pregnancy, or menopause can cause fluid shifts
✅Hot weather
Heat dilates blood vessels, increasing fluid leakage
✅Aging
Veins weaken, making circulation less efficient
💡 Mild swelling after a long flight or salty meal? Usually resolves with rest and hydration.
🩺 When Swelling Could Be Serious
While occasional puffiness is normal, see a doctor if you have:
🔴 Swelling inonly one leg
Could be ablood clot (DVT)— especially with pain, redness, or warmth
🔴 Sudden, severe swelling
May signal kidney, liver, or heart issues
🔴 Shortness of breath or chest pain
Could meanheart failure— seek care immediately
🔴 Swelling that leaves a “pit” when pressed (pitting edema)**
Indicates moderate to severe fluid retention
🔴 Swelling with fatigue, foamy urine, or high blood pressure
Possiblekidney problems
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