Swollen Feet: Causes, Treatment and Home Remedies

• Feet and ankles appear larger than usual.
• Skin may feel tight or stretched.
• Puffiness or swelling is visible and can be tender to the touch.
• Shoes may feel tight or uncomfortable.
• Skin may retain an impression when pressed (pitting edema).

• Swelling due to standing or walking (usually over some period that varies from person to person).
• Excess body weight can decrease blood circulation, causing fluid to build up in the feet, legs, and ankles.
• The normal swelling that most pregnant women experience during pregnancy.
• Many medications have the side effects of fluid retention that manifest as swelling.
• Any trauma to the foot or ankle (usually sprains or fractures) can result in swelling.
• Any infection, either localized (abscess) or diffuse (cellulitis).
• Swelling due to lymph vessel or lymph node blockage of lymph fluid.
• Blockage of blood vessels (usually venous) that cause fluid to leak out of vessels into tissue.
• Venous insufficiency occurs when the veins are unable to pump blood adequately, causing blood to pool in the legs.
• Preeclampsia causes high blood pressure during pregnancy. The increase in blood pressure can result in poor circulation and swelling in the face, hands, and legs.
• Cirrhosis refers to severe scarring of the liver, which is often caused by alcohol abuse or infection (hepatitis B or C).
• Pericarditis is long-term inflammation of the pericardium, which is the sac-like membrane around the heart.

• Blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC) or blood chemistry.
• Chest x-ray or extremity x-ray.
• Doppler ultrasound examination of the leg veins.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG).
• Urine analysis.

If the swelling is related to a lifestyle habit or minor injury, the doctor will likely recommend home treatments. If the swelling is a result of an underlying health condition, the doctor will treat that specific condition.

• Treatment for swollen feet and ankles depends on the underlying cause(s).
• In some people, simply raising the feet above the level of the heart or simply getting up regularly throughout the day will reduce or eliminate swelling.
• Other treatments for swelling may include antibiotics for infections, a splint or bandage for a sprain, and taking appropriate medications for congestive heart failure or gout.

• Unexplained painful swelling of the legs.
• Swelling accompanied by fever.
• New foot swelling during pregnancy.
• Single limb swelling.
• Pitting edema.
• Pain and swelling that does not get better.
• Warmth, redness, or swelling in the affected area.
• The affected skin is stretched or broken.
• Ulcers or blisters on the legs.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Chest pain, pressure, or tightness.

• Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day.
• Wear compression stockings.
• Soak in a cold Epsom salt bath for about 15 to 20 minutes.
• Elevate feet, on cushions, and pillows, while sleeping.
• Eating foods rich in magnesium can help.
• Reducing sodium intake can help decrease swelling in the feet.
• Maintain the ideal weight to avoid swollen feet.
• Massaging swollen feet can promote relaxation.
• Increase intake of foods rich in potassium.