Swelling, called edema, generally occurs when fluid collects in the tissues, commonly in the feet. A number of conditions may lead to edema, including standing for too long, wearing shoes that do not fit properly, eating certain types of food, and various medical conditions. Swollen feet are particularly common among pregnant women, diabetics, and people with heart or circulatory problems. Aging, nutritional deficiencies, and premenstrual syndrome are other factors. A number of easy, at-home remedies can reduce the swelling in your feet. Among them are drinking plenty of water, reducing salt intake, keeping your feet elevated, wearing shoes that fit correctly, and wearing compression socks. Losing weight, eating more foods with potassium, and massaging your feet are other helpful remedies. If the edema in your feet and ankles becomes chronic, especially if you have an underlying health condition such as diabetes or heart disease, it is a good idea to see a podiatrist for a complete examination and appropriate treatment options.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Warren Levy, DPM of Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.