hormones, like estrogen and testosteroneДЄllergies may cause swelling in your arms and legs, although it more often affects other parts of your body.nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).The dosage and length of time you take these drugs affect the edema.Дrugs that may cause peripheral edema include: Peripheral edema can be a side effect of many drugs, usually because they involve increased water retention. It occurs because of monthly hormonal changes.Д®ating too much salty food can cause your body to retain fluids, leading to edema. This peripheral edema is temporary and goes away after birth.ДЇluid retention when you have your menstrual period is normal and may cause your legs and feet to swell. In 50 percent of cases, the swelling occurs in the lower legs. Pregnant women retain extra fluid that is needed by the fetus. Sitting or standing for long periods as part of your work can also lead to peripheral edema.Д®ighty percent of pregnant women develop edema, usually in the hands, feet, and face. Long plane flights or car rides may cause your legs and ankles to swell. Inflammation in your lower leg may also be caused by an infection, a torn tendon or ligament, or a strained muscle. Temporary conditions associated with edemaДЄ fracture, sprain, strain, or bad bruise in your leg, ankle, foot, or hand can result in swelling and pain. Here are some common causes of peripheral edema, both temporary and systemic. Constant peripheral edema, day and night, suggests a more difficult underlying cause. In general, if your edema subsides overnight, it indicates a milder cause. Peripheral edema has a wide variety of causes.