As people get older, the feet and ankles have a higher blood volume level, which often results in having swollen feet and ankles. This generally produces little or no pain, despite the fact that some patients find it difficult to move their ankles as they once did. Swelling of the feet can occur for many reasons. A common concern is additional salt in the diet, as this may cause water retention. An antidote may be drinking plenty of fresh water daily, which is helpful in moving the fluids around in the body. Many people can develop swollen feet if they sit for extended periods of time, and this is common while flying. Additionally, blood can collect in the ankles in warm climates, and gravity may contribute significantly toward this. Losing weight, in addition to reducing sugar intake and avoiding unhealthy fats, may help to control swollen feet and ankles. Relief may come from elevating the feet as often as possible, and this is typically effective when coupled with other methods to reduce existing swelling. If you suffer from swollen feet and ankles, please confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper management of this condition.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Scott Samera, DPM of Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
- Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
- Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
- Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
- Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
- Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.