Swollen ankles are a common problem in old age, in overweight people, during pregnancy and in those suffering from problems with the veins. The base problem is buildup of fluid due to the so-called retention water. The swelling that results can also involve feet, calves and thighs.
The causes of swollen ankles can range from physical trauma to purely medical issues. The accumulation may, for example be due to prolonged immobility, use of drugs, hormones or health problems, particularly related to heart failure or renal or hepatic impairment.
In general, a bilateral swelling (affecting both ankles) leads to suspicion of the presence of a systemic problem determined by the increased pressure at the level of capillaries or a decrease in oncotic pressure (i.e. that generated by proteins present in blood plasma). Swelling of both ankles may also be associated with a bilateral venous failure (chronic in most cases) or inflammation of the joints.
A unilateral swelling can be rather associated with a trauma or a disease that manifests itself only in the area of the body affected by pains in the joints or vascular disease. Moreover, differences in the circulation at the local level can ensure that the swelling is more accentuated in one ankle, opposing to the other.
What kind of diseases can be associated with swollen ankles?
The following diseases may be associated with swollen ankles:
- Primary biliary cirrhosis
- Embolism
- Myocardial infarction
- Kidney failure
- Venous insufficiency
- Lymphedema
- Rheumatic diseases
- Pre-eclampsia
- Heart failure
- Thrombophlebitis
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Varicose veins
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it is highly recommended to consult your doctor, in case of symptom’s persistence.
What is the therapy for swollen ankles?
In case of swollen ankles, you can find relief by keeping the legs slightly raised while you are lying down, by motion, reducing the salt content in the diet and, if necessary, losing a few pounds. In some cases you may want to wear stockings and avoid tight clothing. Your physician, depending on the problem and the basis of the swelling, can indicate the most appropriate treatment and suggest the devices most suitable to counteract the fluid accumulation.
If the swelling is associated with trauma, for example a distortion, ice packs and bandages can also be useful. It is crucial to rest and avoid walking on the swollen ankle. Also you could try holding it up, for example by resting on a pillow.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of swollen ankles?
Contacting your doctor is important when the problem persists and you suffer from a cardiovascular, kidney or liver disease and the ankles appear more swollen than usual, or if they are hot, red and fever appears.
Even pregnant women should contact their doctor especially if the swelling increases suddenly or if it is associated with nausea, vomiting and decreased frequency of urination or vision problems.
