A blood clot in the leg, often known as deep vein thrombosis, can prevent blood from flowing through the legs to the heart. As a result of the blockage, this can cause swelling in the ankles and the affected leg. It is normal for there to be a little swelling in the ankles and feet due to extra fluid and pressure exerted on the body by the developing uterus. This is more common in women in their third trimester, especially the weeks before delivery or during the hottest months. However, it is important to check your swelling to make sure it is not severe or appears suddenly. There are many reasons why someone has to deal with swollen ankles or feet.
Your entire foot or part of your foot may appear larger than normal. Foot edema can be painless or accompanied by other symptoms, such as bruising, itching, pain, numbness, redness, stiffness and tenderness. Leg swelling can also be caused by things other than medical conditions and can often be avoided or treated with lifestyle adjustments. For example, avoiding salty foods can reduce the risk of water retention, leading to fluid build-up. By reducing the amount of time you feel, your blood can also continue to flow well. Excessive swelling during pregnancy, on the other hand, can be caused by pre-eclampsia, a condition characterized by dangerously high blood pressure.
Heart medications known as direct vasodilators can also cause this. “Vasodilation” means that medicines help open blood vessels Expert Foot Doctor Brentwood California so that blood flows more freely. Calcium antagonists widen the blood vessels by relaxing muscles in the vessel walls.
The severity of the swelling largely depends on the underlying cause. For example, standing or sitting for a long time can cause mild and temporary swelling of the foot. Severe swelling can result from injury, such as bone fracture or sprain, or a medical condition, such as heart failure or arthritis. Chronic illness, such as congestive heart failure or liver or kidney disease, can increase the risk of edema.
Symptoms include proteins in the urine, excessive rapid fluid retention and high blood pressure. This is a collection of lymphatic fluid in the tissues that can develop due to the absence or problems with the lymphatic vessels or after removal of the lymph nodes. Lymph is a protein-rich liquid that normally travels across an extensive network of vessels and capillaries.
Chronic venous insufficiency can cause skin changes, skin ulcers and infection. If you experience signs of venous insufficiency, you should consult your doctor. Swollen ankles and swollen feet are common and are generally not a cause for concern, especially if you have stood or walked a lot. But feet and ankles that remain swollen or accompanied by other symptoms may indicate a serious health problem.