Swollen feet can make shoes feel tight and movement uncomfortable. This swelling, called edema, happens when extra fluid collects in tissues. It can affect the feet, ankles, or lower legs. Some people notice puffiness after sitting for long periods, especially while traveling. Others experience swelling that lasts longer. The skin may feel stretched or tight, and the legs can feel heavy. Swelling is not always caused by a foot injury. It can signal that fluid is having difficulty moving back through the body. Recognizing changes in foot size and comfort helps patients seek timely care.
Poor circulation in the veins is one possible cause of swollen feet. Veins contain small valves that help blood travel toward the heart. When these valves weaken, fluid can collect around the ankles. Another cause is lymphedema, which develops when the body's fluid drainage system cannot work properly. This system normally carries excess fluid away from tissues. Limited movement and excess body weight can increase the risk of persistent swelling. Swelling lasting longer than three months is considered chronic. Without proper treatment, ongoing swelling can lead to thickened skin and a greater risk of infection.
A podiatrist can examine swollen feet and assess changes in the skin, circulation, and foot shape. The evaluation helps identify possible causes and determine appropriate care. Depending on the findings, treatment may involve professionally fitted compression garments to help control fluid buildup. Compression is not appropriate for every patient, so circulation must be checked first. A podiatrist can also recommend suitable shoes and assess how swelling affects walking. Sudden swelling in one leg, especially with pain or redness, requires urgent evaluation. Swelling accompanied by breathing difficulty requires emergency attention. If you have symptoms of swelling of the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
- Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
- Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
- Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
- Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
- Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
