When we worry about our foot health, we can’t forget about our ankles. The ankle joint mobility is vital to your daily routines because, during ambulation, it adapts to whichever surface you walk on. So what causes your ankles to swell up?
Scientifically known as edema, swelling is due to excess fluid accumulating, usually in places like the lower leg, ankles, and feet. Some of the most common causes of the swollen ankle can be due to:
- Injury
- Medical conditions
- External factors
Swollen Ankles Due to Injury
One of the most common causes of swollen ankles is injuring the ankle or a part of the foot. Spraining your ankle is the most common foot and ankle injury.
Remedies for a foot and ankle injury. If you’ve sprained your ankle, try some of these home treatments:
- Rest
- Elevate your ankle above the waist
- Using an ankle brace
- Applying ice for short periods of no more than 20 minutes
- Utilizing a compression wrap
Swollen Ankles Due to Certain Medical Conditions
If you haven’t injured your foot or ankle, then the swelling you’re experiencing could result from one of the following health conditions.
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection in the deeper layers of skin and is very painful. This fast-spreading bacterial infection can give skin a red, blistery appearance, causing the ankle area to look swollen.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is usually more common in those women over the age of 50. This condition refers to the veins, which circulate blood flow towards the heart, not functioning correctly. The result is blood flowing backward and pooling in the lower legs and ankles.
Blood Clots
Swelling can also be the result of a blood clot. The clot can form in the ankle and obstruct blood flowing to the heart, causing the blood to build up and swell the affected limb. If you believe this may be the cause of your ankle swelling, please seek medical attention if you suffer from deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Lymphedema
Our lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs whose role is to assist in getting rid of infections in the body and keep fluids in balance. Lymphedema refers to swelling that affects the soft tissues in the arms or legs, including the ankles. The swelling occurs from a buildup of a fluid called lymph, composed of white blood cells.
Other Medical Conditions
Other medical conditions that could cause ankle swelling are:
- Heart Failure
- Chronic Kidney Disease
- Liver Disease
- Hypothyroidism
Swollen Ankles Due to External Factors
If you don’t think you’re suffering from any of the above conditions, then your swollen ankles can be due to the side effects of certain medications. Medications such as antidepressants, birth control pills, and steroids can all cause swelling in the ankles.
Are you possibly pregnant? Then you can also expect to have swollen ankles and swollen feet. But be careful; preeclampsia, a life-threatening condition that can occur during pregnancy, could be the cause. It requires urgent medical treatment.
Get Your Swollen Ankle Looked At
The experts at Canyon Oaks Foot and Ankle will help you determine the cause of your swollen ankle. Even if you know the reason, we can provide the appropriate treatment to get you back on your feet.
