Cart : 0 items - $0.00
Normally, swollen feet and ankle are neglected as they are no cause for concern. This is especially when a person is walking or have been standing for a longer period of time. On the contrary, if you observe your feel and ankle to be stayed swollen, then this might signal the serious health problem.
The swelling of the feet and ankles is normally a very common symptom for various health issues. Doctors identify the cause of it by observing whether it has occurred in one limb or both are equally swelled up. In certain cases, this might require an immediate medical attention. Let’s have a look at the possible problems behind the swollen feel or ankle.
Venous Insufficiency:
When a person is suffering from swollen legs or ankle then he/she might be having an early symptom of venous insufficiency. This is a condition where the blood moves up the veins from the legs to the heart, inadequately. The veins have two valves. One way is used to supply the blood downward whereas the other is used to make it flow upward. When, in some cases, the one-way valves, which carry the blood upward is weakened or damaged, the bloods flow down the vessels. Due to this, the blood is preserved in the soft tissues of the lower part of the legs; that is ankle and feet. Constant venous insufficiency could lead to the changes of the skin, skin infections and ulcers. It is better to get yourself checked in case you have the problem of swollen feet or ankle.
Complications During Pregnancy:
It is quite normal to get the swelling ankle or feet during pregnancy. However, sudden or excessive swelling could be the result of some other problem. This may be the sign of preeclampsia. This is a condition where high blood pressure and protein in the urine is developed post 20th week of pregnancy. In such a condition, it is advisable to visit a doctor if you are getting abdominal pain, infrequent urination, vomiting, nausea, headaches or vision changes accompanied by the swelling of feet and ankle.
Disease Of Heart, Liver Or Kidney:
At times, swelling can be connected to the problems related to the disease of heart, kidney or liver. If, you face swelling of ankles during the evening, then it could be a sign of preserving salt and water due to the right-sided heart failure. When, kidneys don’t function properly, there could be the buildup of fluid. Also, the liver produces a protein, albumin, which is responsible in preventing the leakage of blood from the blood vessels. Inadequate production of albumin can create problems. Moreover, if the swelling of feet or ankles comes with other symptoms as in loss of appetite, fatigue or weight gain, then see the doctor immediately.
Infection:
Infection can also be the other reason behind the swelling of feet or ankles. Those, who is suffering from diabetic neuropathy or other such nerve problems of the feet have, are at a higher risk of the foot infection. It is important for those, who suffer from diabetes, to have a regular checkup of their feet.
Blood Clot:
Sometimes, blood clots affect the blood flow in the legs. Due to this, a person may witness swelling in the area. These clots may be either superficial, which occur in the veins just under the skin, or deep, which is also known as deep vein thrombosis. Deep clots can be responsible in blocking one or more than one of the major veins of the legs. These clots are life-threatening is they travel to the heart or lungs. During such cases, one might witness swelling of one leg with pain and lower fever. In some cases, there is also the change in color of the leg. It is advisable to visit the doctor in such cases.
Injury Of Foot Or An Ankle:
Normally, the swelling can also be the result of injury in the foot or the ankle. Out of many, the most common is sprain ankle. This happens when an injury or misstep causes the ligaments to stretch beyond their normal range. Rest, compression bandage, elevated foot on a pillow or stool, use of ice packs and others are suggested to treat it. In case, the swelling or pain doesn’t go with the home remedy, then one should visit a doctor.
Lymphedema:
This happens due to the absence of or the problems with the lymph vessels or after the removal of lymph nodes. Due to this, the lymphatic fluid starts collecting in the tissue. Lymph is nothing but a protein-rich fluid which travels on the vessels and capillaries. The lymph nodes filter them by trapping and destroying the unwanted substance as in bacteria. The problem in the lymph nodes can block the movement of the fluid. This untreated and unattended lymph buildup can lead to deformity and infection. Lymphedema is quite common after the radiation therapy or after the removal of the lymph nodes in those who suffer from cancer. In case, you’ve undergone a cancer treatment and experience swelling, then visit your doctor.
These might be some of the common problems a person may have. There are various reasons behind swelling feet or ankles. It is always better to consult the doctor if you’re receiving a swollen feet or ankles. One should never ignore these signs and symptoms. It is understood that these are quite normal to have but then the irregularities should never be ignored. Visit the doctor if you witness any such things.
