Leg Swelling

When to Take It Seriously – And How Apex Heart & Vascular Center Can Help

Understanding Leg Swelling: A Symptom You Shouldn’t Ignore

Leg swelling, or edema, may seem harmless at first—often dismissed as tired legs, heat, or standing too long. However, it can be a warning sign of serious underlying conditions like venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or even congestive heart failure. Identifying the exact cause early can prevent complications and improve your vascular and cardiac health.

At Apex Heart & Vascular Center, we specialize in evaluating and treating the underlying reasons for leg swelling through advanced diagnostic testing and personalized care.

Common Symptoms Associated with Leg Swelling

Swelling in the legs may occur alone or with other concerning symptoms, such as:

• Tightness or heaviness in the legs or ankles

• Skin discoloration or shiny appearance

• Indentation marks after removing socks or shoes

• Pain or tenderness, especially in one leg

• Shortness of breath (if heart-related)

• Fatigue or general discomfort

• Wounds or ulcers that heal slowly

• Cramping or aching while walking

When Is Leg Swelling Considered Serious?

You should seek immediate medical evaluation if leg swelling is:

• Sudden and severe, especially in one leg

• Accompanied by pain, redness, or warmth (possible DVT)

• Occurring with shortness of breath or chest discomfort (possible heart failure)

• Getting worse over time or not improving with rest and elevation

• Associated with a history of heart disease, kidney disease, or varicose veins

Early diagnosis can help prevent life-threatening complications like blood clots, pulmonary embolism, or advanced venous disease.

How Apex Heart & Vascular Center Can Help

At Apex Heart & Vascular Center, Dr. Yasir Akram and our board-certified specialists offer comprehensive evaluation and treatment for patients experiencing leg swelling. We proudly serve patients across Houston, Tomball, and Cypress.

Our diagnostic and treatment services include:

• Venous Doppler Ultrasound to check for clots or valve dysfunction

• Echocardiogram to assess heart-related causes

• Blood tests to detect kidney, liver, or thyroid issues

• Lymphedema assessment

• Compression therapy for venous support

• Minimally invasive procedures like endovenous laser ablation (EVLA)

• Long-term vascular management plans to reduce recurrence

We provide a personalized care plan that addresses both the symptoms and their root causes.