How to Deal with Swollen Feet
Various factors such as travelling, surgery, or overuse, etc. can cause swollen feet. During pregnancy, it is very common. However, swelling in the feet can make you uncomfortable and might keep you from moving freely.
In this article, we are going to talk about the ways of relieving the pain caused by swollen feet based on your symptoms.
But first, let's see when you need to skip home remedies and consult a doctor right away.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If you find the following symptoms along with swollen feet then consult the doctor immediately:
- Swelling accompanied by fever
- Pain in the swollen area
- Chest pain, pressure or tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Here are some of the issues that can lead to swollen feet:
1. Edema:
When the body retains extra fluid in tissues because of leaking of blood from small blood vessels results in puffiness and swelling of the tissue under the skin. It shows up either on your feet, ankles or legs.
Mostly Edema will heal on its own. Here are some options for treatment:
- Limit your salt intake
- Lay down with your feet and legs higher than your heart
- Take diuretic medications
- Practice Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose
- Wear support stockings
- Adjust your prescription medications
You might come across other symptoms like stretched or shiny skin, increased abdominal size, difficulty in walking, etc. In such a case, we recommend you consult your doctor.
2. Pregnancy:
Foot swelling is common during pregnancy as the body continues to hold water, blood and other fluids. If you have been standing for most of the day, it could be the reason for swelling as well.
Here is how you can take care of it:
- Use pressure cushions for your legs while resting
- Avoid wearing high heels
- Stay in cool rooms
- Avoid wearing tight footwear or socks
- Avoid or decrease salt in your food
If you notice other symptoms like headache, nausea, vomiting, difficulty in breathing, etc. then you must reach out to your doctor.
3. Alcohol:
Alcohol is one of the major reasons why you may have swollen feet because your body retains more water after alcohol intake. Usually, such swelling lasts only for a few days. If it lasts longer, then it can point to signs of problems with your liver, heart or kidney issues.
Some ways to treat swollen feet:
- Limit the consumption of salt
- Start drinking more water
- Use pressure cushions while resting with your feet elevated
- Soak feet in cool water
- Use shoes for swollen feet
4. Hot Weather:
Your feet may swell during hot weather because your veins expand to naturally cool down the body. The fluid passes into nearby tissues. This, in turn, cannot pump the blood to the heart properly, which results in swollen feet or ankle.
Here, I have mentioned some of the precautions you can take:
- Walk every day for a few minutes
- Use shoes for swollen feet
- Do leg exercises
- Make sure to drink more water
- Use pressure cushions while resting your legs
5. Lymphedema:
Generally, cancer treatment causes Lymphedema due to damage or removal of lymph nodes. As a result, your body conserves lymphatic fluid and this causes swollen feet. Other symptoms like heaviness, lack of movement, aches, etc. are also signs of lymphedema. While it is not possible to completely cure this disease, one can take steps to reduce swelling. If the problem is severe then you should see your doctor.
Following are some steps you must take while dealing with lymphedema:
- Pneumatic compression
- Bandage to wrap up your feet or leg
- Some mild exercise for fluid drainage
6. Injury:
Injuries like broken bones, ankle sprains, etc. result in swollen feet. People often recommend rest, ice, compression and elevation to help foot injuries. Many times, swollen feet occur due to an ankle sprain. In such cases, it is good to get medical help directly and try to resolve the issue as soon as possible.
Consult a doctor immediately if your leg has become extremely stiff or you experience numbness. Depending on the severity of the injury, your doctor might recommend a prescription for pain relief.
Final words:
Having a swollen foot is common but if it lasts beyond a certain amount of time, we recommend you seek professional help. The potential remedies mentioned here may help in less severe cases. While moving, wearing special shoes for swollen feet may give you instant pain relief. Soaking legs in hot water regularly is effective as well.
