Why Do Feet And Ankles Swell Up?

Why Do Feet And Ankles Swell Up?

Oedema is a condition where by a person suffers from swollen feet and ankles. Also, when fluid accumulates in tissues and it goes beyond the normal level, the condition is called oedema and most often it is seen in the lower parts of the body as the feet and ankles are most affected.

The connective tissues that exist around the blood vessel and cell are called interstitium. Most of our body’s fluids are stored in this interstitium and blood vessels and certain conditions cause these compartments to be filled with excess body fluid, resulting in the disorder of oedema. Oedema can be a result of varied reasons ranging from temporary to permanent.

It is also a common problem amongst the elderly. And though oedema can be cured with home remedies, other serious conditions may require immediate attention. Also, the swelling of feet and ankles could be a cause of worry, as it could be a result of a benign as well as a serious incurable disease.

“The swelling of feet and ankles could be a cause of worry, as it could be a result a benign as well as a serious incurable disease”

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Less Harmful Causes

  • Increased amount of salt intake in the diet
  • Old age
  • pregnancy period
  • Standing for a long time
  • Excess weight or obesity
  • Menstruation
  • Any infection or injury to the legs
  • Varicose veins
  • Effect of certain medication

Some Serious Causes

  • Clots in the veins
  • Hypertension during pregnancy (pre-eclampsia)
  • Liver or heart failure
  • Certain kidney disease like nephrotic syndrome
  • Protein malnutrition

Home Remedies

  • Reduce the amount of salt in your diet
  • Do some exercise for the legs
  • Wear support stockings
  • Stop incriminating medications

Prevention

  • Avoid wearing tight and restrictive clothing
  • Try to lose weight by adopting some measures like regular exercise
  • Don’t sit or stand in a place for long time without movement
  • Take some time for stretching exercises or walk around while on long-haul flights or car rides

When You Need To Visit A Doctor

  • During pregnancy, a woman’s legs or ankles may swell and if it is severe. she should visit the doctor,
  • Along with swelling of the legs, if there is a decrease in the volume of urine volume, visit a doctor without delay.
  • If the pain is getting intolerable, don’t wait for It to subside.
  • If you are experiencing chest pain or shortness of breath, it’s time to go for a consultation with the doctor.
  • If you are patient with a history of heart, liver or kidney disease and experience a swelling in the legs, visit a doctor immediately.

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