This symptom appearing in only one leg... could be due to a blood clot

Leg swelling is primarily caused by poor blood circulation due to prolonged standing or certain lifestyle habits, or by an imbalance of water and salt in the body resulting from hormonal changes in women, leading to fluid accumulation within cells. In such cases, swelling usually subsides naturally, but if symptoms do not improve after 2-3 days, a medical condition should be suspected. What could it be?

<Renal Failure>

Swelling occurs around both hands, legs, and eyes, accompanied by abdominal distension due to ascites. Proteinuria, with foamy urine, may also occur. When kidney function declines and excess protein called 'albumin' is excessively excreted from the blood, the fluid in the blood escapes outside the vessels and accumulates in cells and tissues, causing edema. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve the use of immunosuppressants and diuretics.

Heart failure

Swelling occurs in both calves, feet, and abdomen, and difficulty breathing is characteristic. When heart function declines, the left ventricle's ability to pump blood throughout the body weakens, leading to poor blood circulation and easy swelling of the body. At this time, if blood accumulates inside the left ventricle, the pressure in the blood vessels connected to the lungs increases, especially worsening shortness of breath when lying down. Treatment involves the use of diuretics or sympatholytic agents, depending on the patient's condition.

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Within 48 to 72 hours, severe swelling occurs in one leg acutely, and the leg becomes red or bluish with a sensation of warmth. Sometimes, symptoms include waking up due to a cramp during sleep. Blood becomes thick or blood flow slows, leading to blood clots (thrombi) that block arteries returning blood to the heart, causing swelling. Treatment involves inserting a catheter into the vein to administer thrombolytic agents to remove the blood clot.