Many patients will come into our office at Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center located in Howell, NJ asking the question, “Why are my ankles so swollen?” Usually this time of the year, it is caused by the increase in salt intake from too many barbequed hot dogs and the increase in humidity during the summer months. There are many possible causes for swollen feet and ankles, ranging from the common and harmless to the rare and dangerous.
Occasionally, the ankles and feet swell as the result of something localized to that part of the body. If you recently suffered a traumatic injury to one or both of your legs, for instance, it’s expected for the onset of swelling and bruising to occur. The ankles and feet can also swell as the result of an infection. For instance, a severe ingrown toenail or an insect bite that you’re having a reaction to may cause unexpected swelling. Burns, including sunburns, can also cause swelling.
Sometimes a more systemic problem can lead to edema in the ankles and feet. Problems of the heart, liver, and kidneys can eventually cause swelling in the lower legs, ankles and/or feet. Pregnancy and obesity can both cause obstructions of the circulatory system leading to swelling of the feet and ankles. Arthritis and other joint diseases can lead to pain and swelling in the feet and ankles, although this swelling will be focused in the joints themselves and you shouldn’t expect a generalized puffiness.
A certain amount of swelling in the ankles and feet is not uncommon in the summer months, especially if you’ve been standing or walking for long periods. It’s also common to get swollen ankles or feet if you’ve had to do a lot of prolonged sitting, such as during an airplane flight. I regularly visit the spa while on vacation to treat myself to a relaxing massage because of the swelling. A massage assists your body to rid of excess fluid. Some women get swollen ankles and feet during menstruation.
Medications such as antidepressants, steroids, blood pressure medications and hormone supplements are a common cause of swelling in the ankles and feet. Diet can also play a role. If you’ve been taking in too much salt, it can lead to swelling.
Finally, gaining weight and being more sedentary can often cause an increase in the size of your feet and ankles.
If you are unsure of the cause of your swollen feet or ankles it is imperative to make an appointment with one of our physicians at our office in Howell, our office in Edison, our office in Monroe or our office in Carteret. BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY.
Possible Causes of Swollen Feet/Ankles
- Diet
- Insect Bite
- Allergic Reaction
- Pregnancy
- Water Retention
- Nephritis
- Side Effect from Medication
- Poor Fitting Shoes
- Cellulitis
- Lymphedema
- Varicose Veins
- Poor Circulation
- Deep Vein Thrombosis
- Heart Failure
- Anemia
- Kidney Disease
- Diabetes
- Gout
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
