How Do You Deal with Swelling in Your Ankles and Feet?
Do you suffer from occasional swelling in your feet or ankles? If so, you may worry about the condition and wonder what may be causing it and, crucially, whether you should seek some advice or not. So, what is going on in this situation?
Understanding Oedema
The medical name for this condition is oedema and involves an accumulation of fluid that may leak out of blood vessels in the tissue. While this leakage is not unheard of, it's difficult for your circulatory system to transport any excess fluid from his areas, mainly due to the effects of gravity.
Dealing with Heat
Oedema can be worse in particularly hot weather, as the blood vessels tend to expand. They do this to try and regulate heat and cool the body down, but more of that fluid can also escape.
Being Sedentary
Some people suffer from oedema if they spend long periods sitting or standing. It's always best to move around where possible as this helps with circulation and can avoid fluid pooling in the ankles and feet.
Other Causes
Unfortunately, carrying more weight than you should put extra strain on your lower extremities and circulation in general. This would make oedema more likely. You may also notice some issues as you get older, and your circulatory system tends to be somewhat weaker.
Challenges of Pregnancy
Pregnant mothers can expect their bodies to change as the baby develops, and the additional weight within the womb can sometimes affect circulation in the legs and ankles. Again, oedema may be more prevalent in this situation.
Exercising and Resting
You can certainly take some measures at home to relieve the symptoms. Try to exercise as much as possible and avoid sitting at an office desk for very long periods without a break. If possible, try to give your ankles and feet a break by laying down and resting them on slightly elevated pillows. This will help gravity work in the opposite direction for a change, shifting some of the fluid.
Drinking More Water
While it may sound counter-productive, perhaps you should drink more fluid than you already are. After all, if you are dehydrated, your body will tend to retain more of the existing fluid "just in case," which could find its way to your feet and ankles instead.
Getting Professional Advice
Sometimes, at-home remedies are not enough to deal with the situation. If you're worried about the problem, consult with podiatrist services. They will examine your condition and could advise a course of treatment. Crucially, they will determine if the swelling is a potential sign of any other underlying health problem.
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