Signs of swelling

Swelling is caused by increased or too much fluid in the body. Signs can include stretched, shiny or discolored skin, pain, stiff joints, or leaking fluid from the skin.

These are common signs of swelling:

• Puffiness or swollen skin, most commonly in the feet, ankles, legs and arms
• Stretched, tight or shiny skin
• Indents or pits on the skin after pressing on the swollen area
• A heavy feeling in the affected area
• Stiffness or reduced mobility
• Discomfort, pain or weakness
• Rapid or unexplained weight gain
• Bloated or increased abdomen size

Pay special attention to the following symptoms when the swelling gets out of control:

• Fever
• Swelling associated with pain and/or redness in the calf
• Shortness of breath or increased breathing rate
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Red, blue or discolored skin
• Wounds or skin ulcers in the affected area
• Severe pain in the area of the swelling
• Skin in the affected area feels warmer to the touch than other areas
• Changes in urination
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
• Loss of appetite
• Inability to move

Do not hesitate to reach out to a medical professional if you are at all concerned. Any significant change in symptoms, or the sudden onset of new symptoms, should be evaluated as soon as possible by a healthcare professional.