Swelling in the ankles, feet and legs is often caused by a build-up of fluid in these areas, called oedema Oedema is usually caused by: standing or sitting in the same position for too long eating too much salty food
Should I be concerned if my left ankle is swollen?
Swollen ankles and swollen feet are common and usually not cause for concern, particularly if you have been standing or walking a lot But feet and ankles that stay swollen or are accompanied by other symptoms could signal a serious health problem
What does a swollen left ankle indicate?
Edema in foot and ankle Swelling of the foot, ankle and leg can be severe enough to leave an indentation (pit) when you press on the area This swelling (edema) is the result of excess fluid in your tissues — often caused by congestive heart failure or blockage in a leg vein
How do you get rid of fluid on the ankle?
7 Helpful Ways to Reduce Swollen Feet and Ankles Walk it Out Drink Lots of Water Sleep on Your Side Enjoy Some Pool Time Limit Your Salt Wear Compression Socks Elevate Your Feet
Is it bad if your ankle is swollen?
When the cause is minor or temporary, swollen ankles are often treatable at home, but there are some cases when they need to be treated by a doctor In these situations, swollen ankles could be a sign of a serious illness If your swollen ankles occur along with shortness of breath or chest pain, call 911
Does swollen ankles mean heart failure?
Swelling of the feet is a common sign of heart failure You may also notice swelling in your legs, ankles, and stomach Many things can cause swelling, so it’s important to see your doctor to diagnose the cause
What does it mean when one ankle swells?
A swollen foot may be caused blood vessel blockage, lymphatic blockage, or trauma from an injury Other causes of swelling in one foot include skin infections like cellulitis, or ankle arthritis which can also be the cause of one swollen ankle
Can dehydration cause ankle swelling?
Stay Hydrated – dehydration causes the constriction of blood vessels leading to the forcing of fluids into the extracellular spaces between cells leading to retention particularly in the lower limbs
How do you get rid of swollen ankles fast?
Home Care Put your legs on pillows to raise them above your heart while lying down Exercise your legs Follow a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid buildup and swelling Wear support stockings (sold at most drugstores and medical supply stores) When traveling, take breaks often to stand up and move around
Does walking help swollen ankles?
Tips to reduce ankle and foot swelling Simple lifestyle changes — such as exercise and weight loss — also can help reduce or prevent swelling while also improving your overall health, says Dr Botek She suggested activities such as walking and swimming
Why won’t my ankle swelling go down?
There are several common causes of ankle pain that does not go away: The sinus tarsi syndrome Lingering inflammation, scar tissue, or a partly torn ligament can occur in the hollow place in the side of the anklebone called the sinus tarsi (sinus in Latin means hollow or sunken and the tarsus is the ankle)
How long does a swollen ankle last?
Typically, swelling will reside naturally within two weeks of the injury, even with more severe ankle sprains If severe swelling occurs after this, you may want to consult your doctor for an ankle injury
What medications cause swollen ankles?
Medications that may cause the feet to swell include: hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone calcium-channel blockers that help control blood pressure steroids, both androgenic and anabolic, and corticosteroids antidepressants nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs medication to help manage diabetes
How can you tell if your ankle is swollen and your heart is related?
Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, or Feet Swelling (edema) in your lower legs is another sign of a heart problem When your heart doesn’t work as well, blood flow slows and backs up in the veins in your legs This causes fluid to build up in your tissues
When should I see a doctor for a swollen ankle?
People with a more severe ankle sprain — characterized by extreme bruising or swelling and an inability to bear weight on the foot without significant pain, or when there doesn’t seem to be any improvement over the first several days after the injury — should seek medical attention, Drs
What does swollen ankles mean in the elderly?
Legs, ankles, and feet swell when excess fluid is pulled down by gravity and builds up in the lower body This is called edema and it’s common in older adults and usually happens on both sides of the body It can be caused by a variety of health conditions including heart failure, kidney disease, gout, and arthritis
What 3 foods cardiologists say to avoid?
Here are eight of the items on their lists: Bacon, sausage and other processed meats Hayes, who has a family history of coronary disease, is a vegetarian Potato chips and other processed, packaged snacks Dessert Too much protein Fast food Energy drinks Added salt Coconut oil
How do I know my heart is failing?
Heart failure signs and symptoms may include: Shortness of breath with activity or when lying down Fatigue and weakness Swelling in the legs, ankles and feet
What are the 4 stages of congestive heart failure?
There are four stages of heart failure (Stage A, B, C and D) The stages range from “high risk of developing heart failure” to “advanced heart failure,” and provide treatment plans
Why is my left ankle retaining fluid?
Excess body mass can decrease blood circulation, causing fluid to build up in the feet, legs, and ankles Standing or sitting for long periods When the muscles are inactive, they can’t pump body fluids back up toward the heart The retention of water and blood can cause swelling in the legs
How can I reduce inflammation in my ankle?
Ice: To reduce swelling, apply ice or a cold compress to the area for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours Compression: Ask your provider about wrapping an elastic bandage around your ankle to reduce inflammation Be careful not to wrap it too tight
Why is one leg swelling and not the other?
Some of the causes for swelling in only one leg include: Infection in the foot or leg Muscle strain or tear in the affected leg Blockage of the leg’s lymphatic system