This article is a 2-Part series, reviewing the varied elements that can lead to swelling, a common condition that persons experience from time to time.

Swollen feet can occur for different reasons. Some causes, such as minor injury, are apparent and easier to treat. Others, however, may be signs of a serious underlying health condition, that needs prompt medical attention. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why a person’s feet may appear swollen; when they should talk to a doctor or a podiatrist; and what the treatment might involve.

1. Edema (swollen foot)

This is the medical term for swelling that occurs when fluid becomes trapped in the body’s tissues. It usually affects the legs and feet, but can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the face or abdomen. Other signs of edema include:

• shiny, stretched skin over the affected area
• skin that stays dimpled after pressing it
• discomfort and reduced mobility
• coughing or difficulty breathing, if it affects the lungs.

2. Foot or ankle injury

Trauma to the foot or ankle can cause swelling in this area of the body. For example, a sprained ankle, which occurs when the ligaments become overstretched, could cause the foot to swell.

 

 

3. Pregnancy

A common symptom of late pregnancy is  swelling of the feet and ankles. This is as a result of fluid retention, and increased pressure on the veins.

4. Preeclampsia

If swelling during pregnancy comes on suddenly, and is severe, it could be a sign of preeclampsia. This is a condition that can occur during pregnancy, or immediately after the birth. Symptoms include protein in the urine, rapid excessive fluid retention, and high blood pressure. A severe condition that usually surfaces in the latter half of pregnancy, it can progress to eclampsia, which is even more dangerous, and constitutes a medical emergency.

5. Lifestyle factors

Some lifestyle factors can also lead to swollen feet. These  include:

• being sedentary
• being overweight
• wearing ill-fitting shoes.

 

6. A side effect of medication

Taking certain medications can result in the feet swelling, especially if they cause water retention. The following are examples:

• hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone
• calcium-channel blockers that help control blood pressure
• steroids, both androgenic and anabolic, and corticosteroids
• antidepressants
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• medication to help manage diabetes.

If you think your medication is causing swelling, speak with a doctor, who may be able to alter the dosage, or prescribe a different type of medication.

7. Alcohol

Alcohol can cause the body to retain excess water, causing the feet to swell. If the swelling continues for more than 2 days, make an appointment with your doctor. Recurrent swelling of the feet after drinking alcohol, may be a sign of an underlying issue with the heart, liver, or kidneys.

8. Hot weather

During hot weather, the feet can swell, because the veins expand to cool the body. This process can cause fluid to leak into the surrounding tissue. Fluid can also collect in the ankles and feet.

9. Infection

An infection can cause swelling in the feet and ankles. People with diabetes have an increased risk of infection affecting their feet;  so they should remain vigilant for any changes to this part of the body, such as blisters and sores appearing.

10. Venous insufficiency

Venous insufficiency occurs when a person’s blood cannot flow around the body properly. It is due to damaged valves causing blood to leak down the vessels, and fluid retention in the lower legs, particularly around the feet and ankles. Signs include:

• achy legs
• skin changes, such as flaking
• new varicose veins appearing
• skin ulcers

Remedies/ Treatment

Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of swollen feet.

To treat venous insufficiency, a doctor may recommend making some lifestyle changes, such as taking up exercise, to help keep the blood pumping around the body efficiently. Compression stockings, and medication to prevent blood clots, can also help. In some cases, a doctor may suggest surgery to try to repair the damaged valves.

Other prevention methods include avoiding standing or sitting still, especially with crossed legs, for extended periods.

When to see a Health Care Provider

If the swelling does not go away, or it occurs repeatedly, it’s time to make an appointment with a doctor to determine whether there is an underlying cause. Do check Part 2 for more causes and treatment info.

Your feet mirror your general health . . . cherish them!