Both internal and external reasons can cause edema and cause discomfort, but simple actions can help relieve the swelling.
Unfortunately, swelling and pain in the feet and ankles, the famous edema, is a problem that affects almost everyone at some point in their lives. After all, this is the area of the body that bears all our weight and supports us, and it is also the place where the greatest accumulation of fluids occurs in our body, due to gravity.
This causes this area of the body to be the first to signal when something is not going well in relation to fluid retention. “The feet are the first to show swelling, regardless of the cause and are an excellent indication for a physical examination during a physical examination to evaluate fluid retention,” explains Dr. Aline Lamaita, vascular surgeon, member of the Society’s board of directors Brazilian Angiology and Vascular Surgery (SBACV).
The causes of edema can be various, from internal to external. See below the main ones and how to relieve swelling in the feet and ankles:
Internal causes
According to the doctor, swelling may occur due to systemic causes. That is, due to more generalized problems in the body. such as changes in thyroid hormones, such as hypothyroidism, or changes in gynecological hormones, such as in menopause or premenstrual syndrome.
“In these situations there is generally a dilation of the vessels which favors the accumulation of liquids. Another systemic cause may be the malfunction of the kidneys, linked to the accumulation of important liquids throughout the body, since in renal failure the kidney stops filtering and expelling urine. This creates a water imbalance that will always manifest itself in the legs”, says the specialist.
In these cases, the problem usually occurs in the legs. However, when edema appears in only one, it can be the result of specific causes, such as leg pathologies associated with local inflammatory processes (tendinitis, arthritis and erysipelas). Furthermore, according to Dr. Aline, circulatory problems can also cause the problem.
«Circulatory conditions are also linked to the accumulation of fluids, in urgent cases such as thrombosis, generally unilateral, and bilateral when talking about varicose veins and venous diseases. High blood pressure itself can cause leg swelling when decompensated. Venous insufficiency, the famous varicose veins and post-thrombotic syndrome cause chronic swelling in the more advanced stages of the disease, generally associated with dermatitis, darkening of the skin in the area and even the appearance of wounds,” he explains.
External causes
Swelling can also occur due to external causes, especially in hot weather. However, in these cases, the problem usually resolves itself easily, after a night’s sleep or rest. Therefore, if the edema persists, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
Some medications can also cause swelling in the feet and ankles, as they increase vasodilation. “Medications such as antihypertensives can cause swelling, especially in the elderly population. Therefore, if you use blood pressure medications and suffer from swollen legs, be careful, both hypertension itself and its treatment are linked to swelling,” says the vascular surgeon. Edema may also appear during pregnancy, due to compression of the uterus and hormonal changes.
How to relieve swelling in your feet and ankles
Below, Dr. Aline provides some simple tips to relieve edema:
- Rest with limb elevation
- Cold compresses with chamomile
- Foods rich in water (fruit, vegetables) to stimulate diuresis
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Always keep the movement and the limb active
- Avoid alcoholic beverages known to cause retention
Remembering that these measures do not replace the need to seek professional help when necessary.
For some people, the daily use of elastic compression stockings and medications may also be recommended, always following the advice of the doctor. Furthermore, when thrombosis is not suspected or has been excluded, lymphatic drainage can in some cases be performed.
Source: Health in the day
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
