When swelling occurs in the body it is called an 'edema', and it essentially means that a build-up of fluid has occurred; when this build-up occurs in the legs, ankles or feet it is referred to as a 'peripheral edema'.
Although swollen feet are primarily characterized by excessive fluid in the foot, there may be secondary symptoms as well, such as numbness, redness, tenderness, warmth, stiffness, tingling, or the feeling of a 'burning' sensation. Depending on the cause of the swelling there may be bleeding, bruising, or difficulty moving the foot or putting weight on it.
Feet
There are several potential causes of swelling feet and several factors need to be taken in consideration including the length of the time the swelling has occurred, the severity of the swelling, and any known underlying conditions (such as diabetes or injury) that may be contributing to the swelling. Additional factors that may be causing the feet to swell are very important as there are so many potential causes to this condition.
Common causes of swollen feet include pregnancy, weight issues, overconsumption of salt, advanced age, menstruation, injury or trauma to the foot, and standing or sitting for too long of a time.
Common injuries that may cause the feet to swell include tendon rupture (notably the Achilles heel), sprained ankle, broken bones in the foot or toe, dislocation of bones in foot or toe, insect bites, burns, and sports injuries.
Inflammatory causes that may be underlying swollen feet include abscesses, inflammation of the blood vessels, plantar warts, bursitis, nail infections, skin ulcers, tendonitis, cellulitis, plantar fasciitis and infection of the bone.
Medication such as diabetic pill, some anti-depressants, high-estrogen birth control pills, calcium channel blockers, certain antidepressants, and steroids have also been noted as common causes as well.
Emergency situations requiring immediate medical intervention may cause edema of the feet. These emergencies may be caused by heart, kidney or liver failure or blood clots. If swelling of the feet is accompanied by sudden chest pains, arrhythmia, fever, or unconsciousness emergency intervention is absolutely required.
If swelling in the feet is not reduced over time this can have serious consequences such as decreased blood circulation, increased pain, difficulty walking, risk of infection and scarring of the tissues of the feet. Proper treatment is very important even in non-emergency situations, and if you are certain there are no serious underlying conditions that need to be looked at by a professional you can try treating yourself.
Some of the most effective methods of self treatment include elevating the foot, applying ice to the afflicted area, wearing compression stockings, stretching the foot and ankle to improve circulation, keeping mobile so that fluids don't pool in your lower limbs, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing salt intake and wearing non-constrictive footwear. Do not bind or otherwise constrict the feet as your circulation is already likely decreased and you do not want to make the situation worse.
If these steps do not provide relief over time, if you develop serious secondary symptoms, or if you have any reason to think the problem may be serious it's important that you seek immediate medical attention.
Swollen Feet
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