Swollen feet ankles refer to a condition where the muscles present in the feet suffer an excessive buildup of fluid. Such a buildup may lead to a rapid increase in weight over a very short time. Slight swelling of the lower legs does commonly occur during the warm summer months. Slight swelling is also more likely to occur in case a person has been standing or even walking a lot.
See a doctor in case you have persistent swelling. Or in case you have swelling accompanied by shortness of breath as well as weight gain, or there is swelling which damages the skin or in case of any specific medical conditions or concerns.
Swelling is also known as edema. Swollen feet ankles are caused by fluid buildup in the tissues. Gravity tends to pull the fluids to your feet as well as ankles, causing them to swell. Swelling may even be due to a serious condition of the kidney, heart, or the liver or blood vessels.
Swollen feet ankles may be due to eating a poor diet which is high in salt and carbohydrates or due to taking birth control or even hormone replacement therapy pills. Other causes include pregnancy, PMS or due to sodium retention. Swollen feet ankles may be because of muscle injury, varicose veins or having a history of phlebitis. It may be due to allergic reactions or preeclampsia, or due to neuromuscular disorders, trauma, laxative abuse, diuretics abuse or drug abuse.
The treatment of swollen feet ankles will depend on the cause behind the swelling. One of the first treatment options is keep the legs elevated above the level of the heart. Anti-inflammatory medicines are also helpful in reducing swelling.
Other treatment options include leg wedges in order to elevate the feet while sleeping, or wearing support socks and stocking, which come in various gradients depending on the pressure needed, as well as various lengths.