CHECK-UP:Swelling of one or both legs may be caused by a range of other conditions such as a blood clot, infection, venous insufficiency and varicose veins
Why do ankles swell and is it always a sign of a serious problem?
Painless swelling (oedema) of the feet and ankles is a common problem, particularly among older people.
Lower limb oedema, which is also known as peripheral oedema, can affect both legs, involving the feet, ankles, calves or even the thighs.
Because of the effect of gravity, swelling is particularly noticeable in the lower part of the body.
Ankle oedema can occur for a number of reasons including prolonged periods of standing, periods of immobility, being overweight or injury to the limb.
In some women it may occur during menstruation. While swelling of the feet and ankles can be a minor problem, it may also be an indication of more serious illnesses, such as heart failure, renal failure or liver failure.
Where it occurs during pregnancy it may indicate a condition known as pre-eclampsia – a serious illness which involves high blood pressure and swelling.
Are there other reasons why a swelling of the leg might occur?
Yes, there are. Swelling of one or both legs may be caused by a range of other conditions such as a blood clot, infection, venous insufficiency – where the veins in the legs are unable to adequately pump blood back to the heart – and varicose veins.
It may also occur if there is a blockage of the lymph nodes in the legs.
Some medications may also cause your legs to swell; these include hormones such as oestrogen and testosterone; blood pressure medications called calcium channel blockers, steroids and some antidepressants.
How can it be treated?
Treatment of oedema will depend on the underlying cause. In some cases diuretics (water tablets) may be prescribed. Although effective in reducing the swelling, they may cause some side effects.
If lower limb oedema is found to have a benign cause, then self-management measures (see illustration) may help.
However, if you notice swelling in the legs and experience shortness of breath or chest pain, you should seek medical attention immediately.
You should also see your doctor if you have a history of liver or kidney disease and now have swelling in your legs or abdomen. If your swollen foot or leg is red or warm to the touch or you have a temperature, get medical advice.
And if you are pregnant and have more than just mild swelling of the legs or have a sudden increase in the swelling, you should also be medically assessed.
Ankle swelling
In the case of ankle swelling that has a benign cause, self management measure may help. These include:
- Elevating the legs above the heart while sitting or lying down
- Taking regular, gentle exercise - this helps pump fluid from your legs back to your heart
- Wearing support stockings
- Following a low-salt diet which can reduce fluid retention and swelling
