Overview

• Dr Sermed Mezher demonstrates pressing the lower leg for five seconds to check for a dent that lingers, a sign of pitting oedema.
• Pitting oedema reflects fluid build-up that can stem from temporary factors such as prolonged standing, heat, pregnancy or excess weight.
• Longer-lasting swelling can indicate vein problems or serious conditions including heart failure, kidney disease or liver disease.
• One leg swelling more than the other can suggest a blood clot in the leg and warrants urgent medical assessment.
• NHS guidance notes swollen ankles and legs are common in heart failure and lists breathlessness, fatigue and lightheadedness as key symptoms.