Foot and ankle swelling, medically known as peripheral edema, can be a distressing symptom with various underlying causes. One common reason for swelling is fluid retention, which can occur due to prolonged standing or sitting, especially in hot weather. Another culprit is injury or trauma to the foot or ankle, leading to inflammation and fluid accumulation in the affected area. Medical conditions such as venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis, or lymphatic obstruction can also result in swelling. Furthermore, heart failure, kidney disease, liver disease, and certain medications can contribute to fluid retention and subsequent swelling in the lower extremities. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstruation may cause temporary swelling. Lifestyle factors, like excessive salt intake, poor diet, obesity, and lack of physical activity, can cause swelling. Identifying the underlying cause of foot and ankle swelling is essential for effective management and prevention of complications. If your feet or ankles are swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. 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 offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.