Swollen feet are uncomfortable and can cause pain throughout the day. Swollen feet can be caused by many different factors, which will be discussed in this guide.
Before you book an appointment with your doctor, it's worth considering the natural ways to relieve swelling and pain. However, it's important that you learn the root cause of swelling, so that the best treatment can be found. In some cases, where the cause of the swelling is less obvious, you may need to visit a health professional.
Many of the home remedies below can be combined to help reduce swelling in the feet.
Let’s first take a look at the Causes of Swollen Feet
Edema
Most swelling in the foot and ankle is due to edema. Edema occurs when fluid gets trapped in the tissues of the body, causing uncomfortable swelling. This fluid retention can occur from many different health and lifestyle issues, including hot weather and more serious conditions, like cognitive heart failure.
Injury in the Feet or Ankles
Injuries or trauma can cause swelling, especially sprain or muscular injuries. Swelling from injury typically lasts between two to four days, but can last as long as a few months. The muscular injury can cause fluid retention, which presents as swelling in the feet and ankles.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women hold more water than usual. This can cause swelling in the feet and ankles. Typically, swelling occurs in the third trimester of pregnancy. The womb can cause pressure to build, restricting blood flow and causing fluid build-up in the ankles and feet. This tends to happen more if you have been standing a lot or it's a particularly hot day.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is swelling during pregnancy that occurs suddenly and is severe. You may have preeclampsia if you have severe swelling, headaches, nausea, less frequent urination, higher blood pressure, vision changes, and vomiting.
If you think you may have preeclampsia, it's wise to talk to a medical professional and seek treatment as soon as possible, as this condition may develop into something more serious.
Lifestyle
Different lifestyle factors may account for swelling feet. People who are overweight, have a sedentary lifestyle, or wear ill-fitting shoes may be more at risk. Prolonged sitting and standing may also have an impact on how much, and how often, your feet swell.
Medication
Some medications may cause water retention and swelling of the feet. Hormones, steroids, blood pressure medications and anti-depressants can cause water retention. If you think that your medication is causing your feet, to swell speak to your doctor. They may be able to offer an alternative medication without these unpleasant side effects.
Heart Disease
Swelling of the feet can be a sign of heart disease. Heart failure can cause the body to retain salt and water, which causes the feet, legs, and ankles to swell. It's essential to contact a medical professional immediately if you believe you're experiencing symptoms of heart disease.
0 Comments