Why Are My Legs Swollen – And Why Do They Feel So Heavy?

Why are my legs swollen - 5 lipoedema ladies in green silhouette

Swollen, heavy legs can be more than just uncomfortable — they may be trying to tell you something about your health. For many people, especially women, ongoing leg swelling and heaviness are mistakenly dismissed as fluid retention, weight gain, or simply “just how their body is.” But persistent symptoms like these can indicate underlying medical conditions that deserve proper assessment and care.

One lesser-known but important cause of leg swelling is Lipoedema — a chronic, often misdiagnosed condition that primarily affects women.

What Causes Heavy, Swollen Legs?

There are several reasons why your legs might feel heavy or appear swollen:

Fluid retention (oedema) from lifestyle factors, certain medications, or underlying heart/kidney conditions
Venous insufficiency, where vein valves stop working properly, causing blood to pool in the legs
Lymphoedema, which occurs when the lymphatic system can’t drain fluid properly
Lipoedema, a fat and connective tissue disorder affecting the legs and sometimes arms

Knowing which of these is responsible for your symptoms can help guide appropriate treatment.

Could It Be Lipoedema?

Lipoedema is a condition that causes abnormal fat distribution, most commonly in the hips, thighs, knees, and lower legs. It tends to affect both legs evenly and is often resistant to diet and exercise.

Common signs of lipoedema include:

Legs that feel heavy, tight, or tender to touch
Swelling that worsens throughout the day but improves with elevation
A distinct line between the swollen leg and a slimmer ankle (known as a “cuffing” effect)
Easy bruising and pain in the fat tissue
A family history of similar leg issues

Lipoedema is often confused with general weight gain or lymphoedema — but it is a distinct condition with different treatment needs.

Why Diagnosis Matters

Many patients with heavy, swollen legs are told to drink less water, eat less salt, or simply lose weight — even when these efforts don’t improve their symptoms. Without the right diagnosis, the underlying condition can worsen over time.

If you’re wondering, “Why are my legs swollen?” or “Why do my legs feel so heavy?”, it’s important to see a practitioner who understands both venous and lymphatic conditions — as well as lipoedema — to get a full picture of what might be going on.

What to Do Next

If you’re living with persistent leg swelling, discomfort, or a sense of heaviness that doesn’t respond to typical treatments, you’re not alone — and there are answers.

At Vein Doctors Group, we assess potential causes of leg swelling, including venous issues and signs of Lipoedema. Early diagnosis and management can help reduce symptoms, improve comfort, and prevent progression.

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