What Causes Ankle and Foot Swelling?
Ankle and foot swelling can be caused due to: • Sitting or standing for long periods of time • A diet high in salt • Airplane flights or long drives which limit movement • Being obese or overweight • Old age • Menstrual periods Swelling can also be caused due to health problems such as: • Problems of heart, liver or kidney • Blood clot • Varicose veins • Venous insufficiency, a condition in which the veins in the legs do not properly pump blood to heart • Pregnancy. A condition in pregnancy known as preeclamsia can also lead to ankle and foot swelling Taking medications which are related to birth control, blood pressure treatment and depression treatment, can also cause foot swelling. How to Manage Ankle and Foot Swelling? Here are a few tips to prevent and treat foot swelling: • Cut down the salt intake in your diet to reduce fluid retention • Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time. While driving, stop every hour to stretch and walk; also stretch your legs and try to walk
