Understanding Swollen Feet: Causes, Signs, and Effective Solutions

Understanding swollen feet: Causes, symptoms, and remedies

What leads to swollen feet?

Prolonged standing: Standing for extended periods can cause feet to swell as fluids accumulate between the cells. Excess weight and pregnancy-related fluid retention can also contribute, resulting in swelling of feet, ankles, legs, and hands.

Medication effects: Certain drugs, including antidepressants, hormonal therapies, blood pressure medications, steroids, and NSAIDs, may lead to swelling as a side effect.

Additionally, organ issues involving the liver, heart, or kidneys can cause swelling. Leg injuries, blood clots, or infections are other possible causes. Consulting a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis is advisable.

Other reasons include neuromuscular conditions, hormone therapies, and diets high in salt and carbs.

Pregnancy-related swelling: Swelling of the feet and ankles can be common during pregnancy, but severe swelling might indicate pre-eclampsia, characterized by high blood pressure and protein in urine after 22 weeks of pregnancy.

If swelling occurs with headaches or abdominal pain, prompt medical attention is essential.

Lymphedema: This results from lymphatic fluid buildup due to vessel damage or removal of lymph nodes, impairing fluid drainage.

Venous insufficiency: Damage to leg vein valves or walls leads to blood pooling, causing early swelling in the feet and ankles.

Blood clots: Clots in leg veins block blood flow back to the heart, causing swelling. Such clots can be life-threatening if untreated.

**Symptoms:** Swelling occurs when small blood vessels leak fluids into tissues, worsening as the day progresses. Risk factors include diabetes, pregnancy, organ malfunction, and blood vessel issues such as varicose veins. Untreated swelling can lead to skin indentation, so care should be taken.

How to reduce swelling in feet:

Elevate your legs: Raising feet helps minimize pressure and enhances circulation, reducing swelling.

Engage in gentle exercise: Walking, yoga, or light aerobics improve blood flow and alleviate swelling.

Use compression wear: Compression socks or calf sleeves promote circulation and decrease fluid buildup. Leg wedges can support leg elevation while sleeping.

Massage therapy: Massaging with air pressure foot and leg devices stimulates blood flow, easing discomfort.

Wear supportive footwear: Choose flexible, non-restrictive shoes and socks to accommodate swollen legs.

Manage weight: Losing weight helps reduce water retention and improves overall health.

Epsom salt baths: Soaking feet in cold water with Epsom salt for 15-20 minutes can relieve swelling and pain. Diabetics should check water temperature beforehand.

Magnesium intake: Supplementing with magnesium (200–400 mg) may help decrease water retention, but consult your doctor especially if kidney or heart issues are present.

Lemon water: Drinking lemon-infused warm water aids detoxification and reduces fluid retention, keeping the body hydrated and rich in antioxidants.