5 reasons for swollen ankles and feet

If you are somebody who tends to walk or stand a lot because of your professional or day-to-day demands, then you know the problem of swollen ankles and feet. But, did you know that this can be because of local weather extremities or certain diseases as well? Often linked with sprains or strains, swollen ankles and feet can be caused by excessive fluid build up in the body, sometimes even caused by heart disease or kidney/liver failure. Other than this, pregnancy, arthritis and obesity can also lead to inflamed ankles and feet. Let's take at the top 5 reasons behind swollen ankles and feet. No# 1 Reason for swollen ankles and feet: Pregnancy complications Even though gynaecologists suggest that swollen ankles and feet for a pregnant woman are quite common, excessive swelling may be alarming. It can be a symptom of preeclampsia, a severe health condition that leads to high blood pressure, which might be harmful for the kid and the mother. If you are pregnant, and you have severe swollen feet accompanied by abdominal pain, irregular urination, nausea and headaches, then you should get in touch with your gynaecologist immediately. No# 2 Reason for swollen ankles and feet: Sprains or strains A sudden injury to the foot can easily lead to a sprained ankle, where the ligaments which hold the ankle in their right place are stretched beyond their normal range. Sprains can be easily treated, depending upon the intensity and type of the strain. Applying ice packs, resting, applying compression bandage and keeping the foot on an elevated level such as a pillow might help. However, if the pain persists for more than 2-3 days, then it is a must to consult a doctor. No# 3 Reason for swollen ankles and feet: Infection Swollen ankles or feet can be a symptom of infection, particularly if you have diabetes or any other nerve problem. Any ill-fitted footwear due to constant pressure at one point can cause pressure, which can be converted into non-healing painless ulcer. An infection can spread due to decreased pain sensitivity in diabetes, which prolongs the misery of the individual. So, appropriate footwear should always be a priority for diabetic patients. No# 4 Reason for swollen ankles and feet: Blood clot Blood clots, which are formed in the veins, can stop the return flow of blood to the essential parts of the body such as legs and heart, leading to swollen feet. Blood clots can be either superficially seen or can be deep, for instance in deep vein thrombosis. These blood clots, in some unfortunate cases, can be life-threatening if they travel to your heart or lungs. If you have a blood clot accompanied with pain and low-running fever, then contact your doctor on a priority basis. No# 5 Reason for swollen ankles and feet: Heart or kidney disease Doctors generally say that if the ankles swell by the late evening, it is a sign of retaining salt and water because of right-side heart problems. Also, when kidneys are not functioning properly, fluid retains in the body leading to foot and ankle swelling. The main reason why fluids tend to retain in foot and ankle is because of gravity, but fluids also tend to build up in the chest and abdomen region.