If your feet or ankles start to swell, avoid ignoring your symptoms. Is the swelling spreading to other parts of your body? Is it worse upon waking in the morning or when you go to bed at night? What helps the swelling subside? The answers to these questions will help your health care provider determine the root cause of your edema and recommend the most appropriate treatment options. If not caused by an injury, foot and ankle pain or swelling usually result from an underlying condition.
Read on to discover the most common causes of swelling in the feet and ankles:
1. Venous insufficiency
Swelling in your lower legs can be caused by prolonged periods of sitting or being inactive, such as when traveling. The force of gravity causes blood to accumulate in the lower part of your body. Gravity pressure can gradually compromise the blood vessels in your legs, leading to venous insufficiency, a disorder that causes your legs and feet to swell more often. You are more likely to develop venous insufficiency if your job involves lots of standing or walking or if you have excess weight.
Failure to treat venous insufficiency can increase your risk of developing deep vein thrombosis, a potentially fatal condition in which a clot forms and prevents blood from returning to the heart. It's also possible that the clot will break off and make its way to your lungs.
2. Musculoskeletal conditions
A combination of cartilage, ligaments, nerves, muscles, and bones make up your feet and ankles. Swelling ankles and feet can be caused by overuse injuries or degenerative diseases that damage these structures. Arthritis, tendinitis, and bone fractures are examples of such conditions. Swelling is also prevalent after an injury sustained while participating in sports.
3. Pregnancy
Swelling of the feet and ankles is most prevalent in pregnant women. Your body accumulates extra fluid during pregnancy, resulting in swelling not only in the foot and ankle but also in the hands and face. Edema is the medical term for this issue. Additionally, the changes in your body increase pressure on your blood vessels, which could disrupt blood flow from your legs to your heart.
4. Organ failure
Heart, kidney, or liver failure can also cause swelling. These organs work together to prevent the accumulation of blood, proteins, and liquids in your body. If one were to fail, it would cause edema in the lower legs.
5. Diabetes
Swelling of the foot is one of the complications those diagnosed with diabetes are at high risk of. Swelling, along with warmth and discomfort, is often an indication of ongoing infection. If you have diabetes and experience swelling in your feet or ankles, consult a podiatrist right away. Taking a proactive approach and getting timely treatment can mean the difference between losing your limb and preserving it.
Lower-extremity swelling should not be overlooked, especially if it occurs frequently. If you’re experiencing swelling in your feet or ankles, you should see a specialist to evaluate your symptoms, determine the proper cause, and undergo appropriate treatment.
The bottom line
Swollen feet and ankles can result from various medical conditions, many of which can even lead to life-threatening consequences if not diagnosed and treated in time. Hence, avoid neglecting your symptoms and consult a professional to see whether your symptoms stem from a minor issue or something more serious. Furthermore, if you’re pregnant, consider visiting a doctor right upon noticing there’s something wrong with your health to prevent future health problems both for you and for your child.
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