Leg swelling: A concern if I have diabetes?
I have diabetes and recently have noticed swelling in my ankles and legs. Should I be concerned?
- Ken / No state given
Mayo Clinic endocrinologist Maria Collazo-Clavell, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.
Answer
Unexplained leg swelling (edema) should be evaluated by a doctor — whether or not you have diabetes. Leg swelling can be a side effect of certain diabetes medications called thiazolidinediones, which increase your body's sensitivity to insulin. Other causes of leg swelling may be unrelated to diabetes but still require further evaluation and potentially urgent treatment. Possible causes of leg swelling include:
- Kidney disease
- Heart failure
- Obstruction of the veins or lymphatic system in the leg
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