Swollen Ankles Edema

Edema or fluid retention is one of the major causes of ankle swelling. It is caused by the accumulation of fluid inside the joint of the ankle, or in the soft tissues that can be found around the ankle. It can be caused by a number of factors, and it can be experienced by people of any age group. However, it is somewhat more common among the elderly.

Fluid Retention in the Ankle

It can be caused by a wide range of factor, right from minor injury to certain serious conditions associated with organs like, the kidney, liver and the heart. More commonly, it is caused by standing for a prolonged time period, injury like, ankle tendinitis and infection of the soft tissues surrounding the ankle joint. Some other common edema causes are, excessive intake of salt, overuse of laxatives and diuretics, use of birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, drug abuse, varicose vein, alcohol abuse and poor blood circulation.

Apart from these, water retention during pregnancy is also very common, for which pregnant women can often experience swelling of the ankles. Sometimes, it can also be associated with conditions like, gout, ankle arthritis and kidney and liver diseases. Moreover, there could be an association between congestive heart failure and edema. Edema associated with congestive heart failure usually affects the feet and the legs.

Swelling that progresses or worsens throughout the day is the main symptom of ankle edema. In the long run, pitting can take place, which means that you can observe an indentation in the area if you press it for sometime. Sometimes, it can be accompanied by a few other symptoms. Usually, symptoms like, ulceration in the area, weight gain, puffy eyes, swollen hands or wrists and increased urination can be observed along with ankle swelling.

Ankles Edema Treatment

If it is not caused by any serious medical condition, then it can be treated and prevented by following a few simple steps. The first important step is to maintain an ideal body weight. Being overweight can put more pressure on the ankles, and cause more swelling. An ideal body weight can be managed with the help of a balanced diet and regular exercises. Physical activity and exercises can also improve the circulation of blood and thus, reduce swelling and fluid retention or edema.

Keep a watch on your sodium or salt intake to reduce ankle swelling and prevent ankle edema. This is because, one of the most common fluid retention causes is the excessive intake of sodium or salt. At the same time, do not forget to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water can help to flush out toxins and excess fluid from your body. This is often worsened by sitting or standing at a single position for a considerable period of time. If your job or occupation requires you to sit or stand for a prolonged time period, then take short breaks in between to elevate your legs and feet for a few minutes. Try to elevate your legs above the level of heart to ease swelling.

Lastly, avoid the overuse of laxatives, diuretics, calcium blockers and also alcohol. If you are using any medication, then be sure take it as per the direction given by your physician. If ankle edema is too severe and causes significant swelling, then you can consider the use of leg wedges and support stockings. Sometimes, application of ice pack can also help to ease the swelling and discomfort. At the same time, it is equally important to get severe edema properly evaluated with the help of a physician. This would help to rule out the possibility of some serious medical conditions, especially diseases of the liver, kidney and the heart.