What causes swollen feet?
Swelling in your feet or ankles is expected after an injury or a long day on your feet. However, painless swelling that has no apparent cause may be a warning sign of a medical problem. Conditions that may cause swollen feet include:
- Venous insufficiency, which causes blood to pool in the leg veins
- Phlebitis, which causes painful inflammation in the veins of the feet and legs
- Deep-vein thrombosis, or blood clots in the deep veins of the legs
- Congestive heart failure, in which the heart doesn’t pump properly
- Liver disease, which may cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues of your feet
- Kidney disease, which causes excess fluid to build up in the body
Several injuries and conditions, such as foot fractures or arthritis, also cause swelling. These foot problems usually also cause pain and may only affect one foot.
Certain medications, such as calcium-channel blockers that treat high blood pressure, may also cause swollen feet as a side effect. Additionally, women often experience swollen feet during pregnancy.
When should I see a doctor for swollen feet?
Mild foot swelling that results from too much walking or a long airplane trip usually improves within a day. If this is the case, the swelling should disappear after you rest and elevate your feet.
You should schedule an appointment at Miklos Foot and Ankle Specialists if any of the following apply to you:
- The swollen foot is red or warm to the touch
- The swelling is accompanied by pain
- Swelling lasts more than a few days
- Swelling develops suddenly
- Only one foot is swollen
Because there are so many possible causes of swollen feet, accurate diagnosis from the professionals at Miklos Foot and Ankle Specialists is the best way to ensure proper treatment.
How are swollen feet diagnosed?
First, your provider at Miklos Foot and Ankle Specialists carefully reviews your medical history and performs a physical exam. They ask questions about the swelling, such as what conditions make it better or worse and what other symptoms accompany it. They may also take lab tests or an X-ray.
Then, they recommend the best course of treatment for your specific condition. Treatment for swollen feet varies depending on the underlying cause.
If you’re concerned about swollen feet, call Miklos Foot and Ankle Specialists or book an appointment online today.
