Swollen feet and legs, referred to medically as edema, occur when fluid is retained in the spaces between body cells. Edema typically affects the feet, ankles and lower legs, but can also impact any area of the body, causing systemic symptoms. Causes:
Ankleâbrachial pressure index - Interpretation of results. 1  In a normal subject the pressure at the ankle is slightly higher than at the elbow (there is reflection of the pulse pressure from the vascular bed of the feet, whereas at the elbow the artery continues on some distance to the wrist).
1 Abdominal ultrasound. 2  You may have an abdominal ultrasound to test for conditions affecting the blood vessels or organs in your abdominal area. 3  Ankle-brachial index test. 4  This test measures and compares the blood pressure between your ankle and your arm. 5  The test shows reduced or blocked blood flow to your legs.