Swelling of the feet and legs is a common finding in many individuals. The swelling may be rapid or gradual in both legs and is a common complaint in older individuals. The swelling is most likely due to fluid or water accumulation. In the younger population, feet swelling may be benign but leg swelling in the older population may have a serious medical disorder as a cause.
When the venous pressure in the legs is high, the fluid usually leaks out of the veins. Fluid build up in the feet can occur for many reasons and these include:
Benign causes:
- prolonged standing
- prolonged sitting
- varicose veins
- long distance swelling
- insect bites
- pregnancy
- obesity
- old age
Medical conditions:
- heart failure
- liver failure
- kidney failure
- deep vein thrombosis
- malnutrition, starvation
- after surgery
- trauma
- lymphedema (only one leg is swollen)
- medications- drugs used to treat high blood pressure (calcium channel blockers (such as nifedipine, amlodipine, diltiazem, felodipine, and verapamil), Steroids, Antidepressants
How can one relieve swollen feet?
- Elevate your legs when lying down
- Exercise your legs. Muscle movement pushes the blood out of the legs.
- Wear support stockings
- Consume a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid retention and swelling.
- All individuals with a medical cause of leg swelling must follow treatment directions as ordered by the physician.