Reasons Why Your Feet Swell

Swollen feet are a common issue, often resolving on their own. However, persistent or sudden swelling can be a cause for concern. Understanding the Reasons Why Your Feet Swell is the first step in addressing this condition. Medically known as oedema, this swelling is typically due to fluid buildup in the feet, ankles, and legs.

Common Reasons for Swollen Feet

Many everyday factors can lead to swollen feet. Often, these causes are not serious and can be easily managed.

Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Gravity can cause fluid to pool in your lower extremities when you remain in the same position for extended periods. This is a frequent reason for feet swelling, especially after long flights or workdays.
High Salt Intake: Consuming excessive salty foods can lead your body to retain more water, contributing to swelling in various parts, including your feet.
Excess Weight: Being overweight or obese can increase pressure on your veins and lead to poor circulation, resulting in fluid retention and swollen feet.
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the body produces more fluids, and the growing uterus can put pressure on veins in the legs, impairing blood flow back to the heart. Swollen feet, ankles, and legs are common during pregnancy, particularly in the later trimesters.
Medications: Certain medications can list swollen feet as a side effect. These include some blood pressure medications, contraceptive pills, hormone therapy, antidepressants, and steroids. If you suspect your medication is causing your feet to swell, consult your doctor.

Other Medical Reasons for Swollen Feet

Swelling in your feet can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions that require medical attention.

Injury: A foot injury, such as a sprain or strain, can cause inflammation and swelling as the body works to heal itself.
Insect Bites or Stings: An insect bite or sting can trigger an inflammatory response, leading to localized swelling around the affected area of the foot.
Kidney, Liver, or Heart Problems: These organs play crucial roles in fluid balance within the body. Problems with these organs can disrupt this balance and lead to oedema, causing swelling in the feet and legs.
Blood Clot: A blood clot in a leg vein can block blood flow and cause swelling, pain, and redness in the affected leg and foot. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Infection: Infections in the foot can also cause swelling, along with redness, pain, and warmth. People with diabetes are more prone to foot infections and should seek prompt medical care if they notice swelling.

Recognizing Oedema: Symptoms of Swollen Feet

Besides the visible puffiness, oedema in the feet can manifest in several ways:

Puffy or enlarged feet, ankles, or legs: This is the most noticeable symptom. Your feet may appear larger than usual, and you may notice your socks leaving deep marks on your ankles.
Shiny or stretched skin: The skin in the swollen area may appear shiny and feel tight or stretched due to the fluid buildup underneath.
Skin discoloration, discomfort, and stiffness: The skin color might change, and you may experience discomfort, aching, or stiffness in the swollen feet.
Dents after pressing the skin: A key sign of oedema is pitting – if you press your finger on the swollen area for a few seconds and a dent remains after you lift your finger, it indicates fluid retention.

Self-Care for Swollen Feet

In many cases, you can ease swollen feet with simple home care measures:

Do:

Elevate your legs: When resting, raise your legs above your heart level using pillows. This helps to drain fluid away from your feet.
Engage in gentle exercise: Regular, low-impact exercise like walking can improve blood circulation and reduce swelling.
Wear comfortable footwear: Opt for wide, comfortable shoes with low heels and soft soles. Avoid tight shoes and high heels that can restrict circulation.
Practice foot hygiene: Wash, dry thoroughly, and moisturize your feet daily to prevent infections, especially if you have diabetes or notice skin changes.

Don’t:

Avoid prolonged standing or sitting: Take breaks to move around if you need to stand or sit for long periods.
Don’t wear restrictive clothing: Avoid tight socks, stockings, or clothing that can constrict blood flow to your lower legs and feet.

When to Seek Medical Advice for Swollen Feet

While swollen feet often resolve on their own, it’s important to know when to seek medical attention.

Consult a doctor if:

Swelling persists or worsens after a few days of home treatment.
Swelling becomes increasingly painful.

Seek urgent medical attention if:

Swelling occurs suddenly in one foot or leg without an apparent cause like injury.
Swelling is severe, painful, or appears abruptly.
The swollen area is red, hot to the touch, or accompanied by fever or chills.
You have diabetes and experience swollen feet, ankles, or legs.
You experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or cough up blood – these could be signs of a serious condition like a blood clot in the lungs, requiring immediate emergency care (call 999 or your local emergency number).

Swollen feet can be a common and often benign issue, but understanding the potential reasons why your feet swell empowers you to take appropriate action, whether it’s simple self-care or seeking timely medical help.