Swelling in your lower extremities is not typically a medical emergency by itself, but when coupled with other symptoms of vein disease it can become a serious health problem.  Aside from their impact on health, swollen legs and ankles can have a negative impact on a person’s daily life.  As the gender more prone to seek venous disease treatment, women are also prone to experiencing leg and ankle swelling.  Read more of Dr. Pal’s experience with women who are evaluated for leg swelling and what kind of impact this can have on their lives. What does a well-known vein doctor in Minnesota have to say about women and leg and ankle swelling? A woman may experience swelling in her lower extremities for a number of reasons.  Many of these reasons are fairly benign.  After sitting or standing in the same position for an extended period of time, fluids may begin to pool in the ankles, causing swelling.  Pregnant women often experience ankle and leg swelling due to an excess of fluids stored in the body.  Exercise and compression therapy, in both cases can be used to reduce or eliminate symptoms.  Other cases, however, swelling in the lower extremities can be a sign of vein disease.  Veins that are damaged or diseased may not be able to properly move blood from the legs and ankles back to the heart.  As a result, fluids begin to pool, causing swelling that may not be easy to address.  In this situation vein disease treatment in Minnesota may be necessary to reduce the swelling.  Consulting with a vein specialist such as Dr. Pal can help you learn more about your vein treatment options. Why do women detest swelling in their legs and ankles? One of the simplest reasons women hate having swelling in their legs and ankles is because it is uncomfortable.  Their legs may be sore, achy, or cramped, leaving them to complain “my legs hurt” to any of those who will listen.  This discomfort may make it difficult to find the energy to exercise.  An inactive lifestyle can make swelling worse, starting a vicious cycle that keeps many women from finding relief. Another reason women hate leg and ankle swelling has to do with the other symptoms it is often associated with.  Swelling caused by vein disease may be accompanied by varicose veins.  The ropy, bulging veins can be very uncomfortable and are extremely unsightly.  The lack of proper circulation that sometimes leads to swelling may also place a woman at risk for blood clots.  Most worrisome are deep vein thrombosis, a type of blood clot that has the potential to cause a pulmonary embolism. Fortunately for any woman worried about ankle and leg swelling, a vein center such as Minnesota Vein Center can provide treatment options to help her get back on her feet.  Our knowledgeable and compassionate staff would be pleased to speak with you further about the types of treatments we offer and how they can help to relieve your swelling.  For more information on how our center can help, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (651) 384-4521.