Seniors are more likely than younger people to have this ailment, which is caused by fluid collecting in soft tissue surrounding the ankles or in the ankle joint itself. It is possible that the swelling is caused by prolonged standing, eating a high-salt diet, sitting for lengthy periods of time, receiving an ankle injury, or using certain drugs, among other things.

What helps with swollen legs in elderly?

Here are some suggestions that may be useful in reducing swelling:

1. While lying down, prop your legs up on cushions so that they are elevated over your heart.
2. Leg exercises are recommended.
3. Maintain a low-salt diet, which may help to minimize fluid retention and edema.
4. Support stockings (available at most drugstores and medical supply stores) should be worn.

When should you go to the hospital for swollen feet and legs?

If you experience abrupt, unexplained swelling in just one leg, or if it happens in conjunction with other symptoms such as chest discomfort, difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, fever, or skin that is red and warm to the touch, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Is edema in the legs life threatening?

Some occurrences of swelling in the legs and ankles are expected, but if the swelling occurs suddenly, is unexplained, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it should be evaluated by a healthcare practitioner. When left untreated, several health disorders that cause this swelling might be life-threatening if not addressed.

What illness causes swollen legs and feet?

Despite the fact that edema can affect any area of your body, you may notice it more prominently in your hands, arms, feet, ankles, and legs. Edema can be caused by medicine, pregnancy, or an underlying condition — most commonly congestive heart failure, renal disease, or cirrhosis of the liver — but it can also be caused by other factors.

What happens if edema is left untreated?

Untreated edema can cause more severe swelling, stiffness, trouble walking, stretch marks or itchy skin, wounds and scars, as well as reduced blood circulation.

How do I get rid of fluid in my legs and feet?

Compression stockings are a type of compression stocking.

1. Movement. Moving and exercising the muscles in the area of your body affected by edema, particularly the ones in your legs, may assist in pumping the extra fluid back toward your heart.
3. Elevation, massage, compression, protection, and a reduction in salt consumption are all recommended.

What medications cause swollen feet?

1. Medication that can cause the feet to swell include hormones such as estrogen and testosterone
2. calcium channel blockers that help control blood pressure
3. steroids (androgenic as well as anabolic), corticosteroids, antidepressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
4. and a number of other medications.
5. Medication to aid in the management of diabetes

What does heart failure swelling look like?

Blood frequently backs up, causing fluid to accumulate in the lungs (congest) and in the legs (insufficiency). Shortness of breath and swelling of the legs and feet are common side effects of fluid accumulation. The skin may seem blue if there is insufficient blood flow (cyanotic).

Can dehydration cause swollen ankles?

Make Sure You Stay Hydrated — Dehydration causes the constriction of blood arteries, which causes fluid to be forced into the extracellular spaces between cells. This promotes fluid retention, particularly in the lower limbs.

Is walking good for edema?

Walking is the most effective weapon in the battle against swollen legs since it is so easy. Getting your legs moving means your circulation will increase, which will help to sweep up the fluid that has accumulated and move it.

When should I worry about leg swelling?

If your legs swell for no obvious reason, get medical attention immediately away, especially if you are experiencing unexplained leg discomfort, trouble breathing, chest pain, or any other symptoms that might indicate a blood clot in your lungs or a heart issue. Leg swelling can be caused by a variety of circumstances, each with a varied degree of severity.

Will drinking more water help with edema?

Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water every day, depending on your activity level. Getting adequate fluids, despite the fact that it may seem paradoxical, really helps to minimize edema. When your body isn’t getting enough water, it holds on to the fluid that it already has. Swelling is exacerbated as a result of this.

What causes legs to swell from knees down?

It occurs when the tissues or blood vessels in your legs contain more fluid than they should, a condition known as fluid accumulation (edema). This can occur if you just spend a long day on your feet or if you sit for an extended period of time. However, it might also be a symptom of being overweight or not getting enough exercise, as well as other more serious medical concerns.

What is the relationship between high blood pressure and edema?

This occurs when the heart is unable to adequately pump blood throughout the body, and as a result, blood accumulates in front of the heart. The result is that fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue as a result of the increased blood pressure in the veins and the increased blood flow. In some cases, this might result in swelling in the legs or an accumulation of fluid in the belly.

Can swollen ankles be serious?

Swollen ankles and swollen feet are typical and usually not a cause for concern, especially if you have been standing or walking for a long period of time, as you have been doing. However, swollen feet and ankles that persist or are accompanied by other symptoms may indicate a more significant health condition in the future.