It is called peripheral edema - but there are many, many possible causes - some serious, some not. You can try getting more exercise, getting up and moving around after sitting for a while, elevating your legs, eating less salt, and wearing support stockings. If that doesn't work your doctor will have to look for the root problem.

It does seem to come on with age to the person that simply doesn't get around as much. It's causes, like devorah posted, can be from a lot of things. Edema can be a little tricky so you really need to see your doctor about it. If you are taking any sort of medication, it could just need a change.

Edema by itself, unless it gets VERY extreme, is not dangerous. But it can be an indication that something is just not right. Your doctor will probably tell you to cut out salt and high salt foods and to get more exercise. He may give you a diurectic, (commonly called water pills) If this doesn't help, he will look closer at the problem. He doesn't need to "see" it, but he does need to know that it is happening.

I don't think I would want to sell my lower extremities, I am kind of attached to my feet!!! ;-) (Sorry, couldn't resist!)

Devorah is right about the salt intake and sitting with your feet elevated. Sodium is the main cause of most swelling in extremities, but I would see your doctor if it is painful or doesn't change.

Good luck!

My feet and ankles swelled until I thought the skin would burst. It was caused from taking prednisone plus it was during very hot weather. My pharmacist told me elevate my feet and legs and to drink lots of water. Good water in, bad water out. It did help.