Excess of fluid accumulation in the feet causes swollen feet. It would rapidly increase your weight if swelling is due to edema. This condition is different from slight swelling of feet during summer. There should not be swelling without any reason and it should not affect you persistently.
There are many factors that trigger swelling of feet and ankles. Some of them are discussed below:
Pregnancy: Swelling of feet is quite common during pregnancy. But if it is very severe then it is indicative of high blood pressure. You need to consult your doctor if there is excess of swelling with headaches, abdominal pain and nausea.
Foot injury : Any mild to moderate injury to the foot can cause swollen feet. It may be due to sprain in ankle also. Sometimes, there may be injury in the ligaments which is holding the ankle when it is stretched beyond limit.
Lymphedema : When there is excess of fluid accumulation in the lymph vessels it may cause swelling. This happens if there is problem in the lymph nodes or vessels. However, lymphedema is common for cancer patients who are undergoing radiation therapy.
Venous insufficiency : Swollen feet can be a symptom of venous insufficiency. This happens when there is inadequate supply of blood that is moving upwards from the legs to the heart. Normally, veins allow blood flow through one-way operation valves. Venous insufficiency occurs when there is any problem in the valves thus leaking the blood down into the vessels of the lower legs.
Underlying disease in the heart or liver or kidney can cause swollen feet. For some people, swelling happens in the evening indicating retention of salt and heart failure. If there is any problem in the normal functions of kidney it can also cause swollen feet. Inadequate secretion of albumin can cause liver disease which can create swelling in the ankles.
Finally, it can be due to side effects of any drugs of calcium channel blockers and antidepressant medicines. It can also be due to hormonal imbalance. Certain allergic reactions, varicose veins and using contraceptive pills may also cause swollen feet.
Apart from swelling in the ankles or legs, there may be moderate to severe pain while walking or moving the legs. Some people will be comfortable while sitting but feel intense pain while walking or moving their legs.
Self Remedy : -
You can keep your legs in the elevated position (above the heart) for facilitating easy blood flow. Do small stretching exercises that help in pumping the fluids into the heart. You can also use support stockings. Avoid taking too much of salt to reduce blood pressure and swelling. Do not stand in the same position for extended hours. Do not wear tight fitting garters or clothing.
In case of minor foot injury and sprain, you can use ice packs or wrap the foot with compressions.
Pictures of Swollen Feet :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Swollen Feet
Your doctor will first identify the underlying cause of swelling in the feet before giving treatment. Swollen feet caused by phlebitis can be set right by giving anticoagulant drugs. He will suggest you to wear support stockings if your problem is due to venous insufficiency. If swelling is due to edema, you will be put on diuretic drugs for increasing the output of urine.
Doing exercise and physiotherapy can help the person to overcome various causes of swelling. Walking is the best exercise to avoid swollen ankles. It aids in free flow of blood and restores lymphatic function. Toning and stretching exercise are recommended for managing fluid retention.