Other questions may also be asked to help figure out the cause of the swelling. Swelling in the limbs can be due to any of several problems. Some of these conditions affect only one limb, or only the legs, while others may affect all the limbs at once. Other causes are also possible. Sometimes, the cause cannot be found.
Prevention is related to the cause.
Most cases cannot be prevented. However, many can be treated. First, a history and physical exam are done. Sometimes this is all that is needed to determine the cause of the swelling. In most cases, however, more tests are needed.