Legs, ankles, and feet swell when excess fluid is pulled down by gravity and builds up in the lower body. This is called edema and it’s common in older adults and usually happens on both sides of the body. It can be caused by a variety of health conditions including heart failure, kidney disease, gout, and arthritis.

When should I be concerned about swollen ankles?

If your swelling is accompanied by other symptoms, including fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight gain, see your doctor right away. If you feel short of breath or have chest pain, pressure, or tightness, call 911.

What helps swollen ankles in elderly?

How to ease swelling yourself

1. lie down and use pillows to raise the swollen area when you can.
2. get some gentle exercise, like walking, to improve your blood flow.
3. wear wide, comfortable shoes with a low heel and soft sole.
4. wash, dry and moisturise your feet to avoid infections.

How do you get rid of swollen ankles?

7 Helpful Ways to Reduce Swollen Feet and Ankles

1. Walk it Out.
2. Drink Lots of Water.
3. Sleep on Your Side.
4. Enjoy Some Pool Time.
5. Limit Your Salt.
6. Wear Compression Socks.
7. Elevate Your Feet.

Are swollen ankles life threatening?

Swollen ankles can also indicate a potentially serious disorder, such as congestive heart failure, deep vein thrombosis, and liver failure. Because ankle swelling can indicate a potentially life-threatening illness, you should seek prompt medical care and talk with your medical professional about your symptoms.

Does swollen ankles mean heart failure?

Swelling of the feet is a common sign of heart failure. You may also notice swelling in your legs, ankles, and stomach. Many things can cause swelling, so it’s important to see your doctor to diagnose the cause.

What medications cause swollen ankles?

Medications that may cause the feet to swell include:

• hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone.
• calcium-channel blockers that help control blood pressure.
• steroids, both androgenic and anabolic, and corticosteroids.
• antidepressants.
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
• medication to help manage diabetes.

Can high blood pressure medication cause swollen ankles?

The most common side effects include headache, flushing, feeling tired and swollen ankles. These usually improve after a few days. Amlodipine can be called amlodipine besilate, amlodipine maleate or amlodipine mesilate.

What causes swelling in elderly legs?

Edema (or swelling) of the lower limbs is common in older adults. The most common cause (about 70%) of leg edema is due to Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). Other serious causes of edema include congestive heart failure, kidney disease, and liver disease.

Does walking help with swollen ankles?

Tips to reduce ankle and foot swelling Simple lifestyle changes — such as exercise and weight loss — also can help reduce or prevent swelling while also improving your overall health, says Dr. Botek. She suggested activities such as walking and swimming.

What happens if edema is left untreated?

If left untreated, edema can lead to increasingly painful swelling, stiffness, difficulty walking, stretched or itchy skin, skin ulcers, scarring, and decreased blood circulation.

How do you make swelling go down fast?

Applying an ice-pack or cold compress to an injury is the fastest way to deal with immediate swelling. It helps reduce swelling by restricting blood flow to the area and slowing down cellular metabolism. Cold therapy systems and ice baths are other methods you can use to apply cold to the area.

Can dehydration cause swollen ankles?

Stay Hydrated – dehydration causes the constriction of blood vessels leading to the forcing of fluids into the extracellular spaces between cells leading to retention particularly in the lower limbs.

How can you tell if your ankle is swollen and your heart is related?

Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, or Feet Swelling (edema) in your lower legs is another sign of a heart problem. When your heart doesn’t work as well, blood flow slows and backs up in the veins in your legs. This causes fluid to build up in your tissues.

Should I go to the doctor for swollen ankles?

When the cause is minor or temporary, swollen ankles are often treatable at home, but there are some cases when they need to be treated by a doctor. In these situations, swollen ankles could be a sign of a serious illness. If your swollen ankles occur along with shortness of breath or chest pain, call 911.

Will drinking more water help with edema?

Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day Though it might seem counterintuitive, getting enough fluids actually helps reduce swelling. When your body isn’t hydrated enough, it holds onto the fluid it does have. This contributes to swelling.