If you only have a mild strain, follow these three simple steps to help relieve your swollen ankle:
- Compress. A compression bandage or sock can provide pain relief and prevent fluid buildup in your ankles. Be careful to choose one that isn’t too tight. ...
- Elevate. Lie down and rest your swollen ankle above your chest to discourage fluid retention.
- Soak. Soak your ankle in a cool Epsom salt bath for 15 to 20 minutes to reduce swelling and pain.
Full Answer
How do you reduce a swollen ankle?
Feb 15, 2022 · Treatment Compression Stockings. Wearing compression stockings applies continuous pressure to the legs, which can help improve... Epsom Salts. Magnesium deficiency is linked to increased inflammation throughout the body. It often causes swelling. Diet and Supplements. Reducing sodium (salt) intake ...
How to relieve swollen ankles?
Feb 04, 2021 · On the other hand, if you’ve been on your feet or have injured your ankle, it’s best to take it easy for a few days. Ice. Cold temperatures constrict blood vessels, reduce swelling and can help with discomfort. Elevation. Keep those legs up on a chair or ottoman to counteract the effect of gravity, which naturally pulls fluid down into your ankles.
When should I be worried about swollen ankles?
Sep 28, 2017 · If your case of ankle swelling is not due to any serious causes, simply relieving the pressure will be enough to decrease pain and swelling. Lifting your feet onto a …
Why is your ankle still swollen after months of recovery?
To reduce the swelling from a foot or ankle injury, rest to avoid walking on the injured ankle or foot, use ice packs, wrap the foot or ankle with compression bandage, and elevate the foot on a...
How do you get rid of swollen ankles?
7 Helpful Ways to Reduce Swollen Feet and AnklesWalk it Out. ... Drink Lots of Water. ... Sleep on Your Side. ... Enjoy Some Pool Time. ... Limit Your Salt. ... Wear Compression Socks. ... Elevate Your Feet.
What is the best medicine for swollen ankles?
For swelling that's painful, a doctor may prescribe a pain reliever or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen sodium (Aleve).
How do you make swelling go down fast?
Applying an ice-pack or cold compress to an injury is the fastest way to deal with immediate swelling. It helps reduce swelling by restricting blood flow to the area and slowing down cellular metabolism. Cold therapy systems and ice baths are other methods you can use to apply cold to the area.Nov 10, 2017
What is the main cause of swollen ankles?
The abnormal buildup of fluid in the body is called edema. Edema is commonly seen in the feet and ankles, because of the effect of gravity, swelling is particularly noticeable in these locations. Common causes of edema are prolonged standing, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, being overweight, and increase in age.
What naturally reduces swelling?
Anti-inflammatory foodstomatoes.olive oil.green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and collards.nuts like almonds and walnuts.fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines.fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges.
Can swollen ankles be serious?
Swelling of the foot, ankle and leg can be severe enough to leave an indentation (pit) when you press on the area. This swelling (edema) is the result of excess fluid in your tissues — often caused by congestive heart failure or blockage in a leg vein.Dec 1, 2020
What medications can cause swollen ankles?
Medications that may cause the feet to swell include:hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone.calcium-channel blockers that help control blood pressure.steroids, both androgenic and anabolic, and corticosteroids.antidepressants.nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.medication to help manage diabetes.
Does Vicks help with swollen feet?
When applied to the chest and throat, it may help ease cold symptoms like nose and sinus congestion. Vicks VapoRub will likely not work to help ease cold symptoms when used on the feet.Oct 16, 2019
Does walking help reduce swollen ankles?
Tips to reduce ankle and foot swelling Simple lifestyle changes — such as exercise and weight loss — also can help reduce or prevent swelling while also improving your overall health, says Dr. Botek. She suggested activities such as walking and swimming.Aug 11, 2021
Does high blood pressure cause swollen ankles?
Your ankles can swell up after a long flight or from standing up for a long period of time, especially in hot weather. Swollen ankles can occur as a side effect of some high blood pressure medicines, for example calcium channel blockers.
How do I get rid of fluid in my legs and feet?
Compression stockingsMovement. Moving and using the muscles in the part of your body affected by edema, especially your legs, may help pump the excess fluid back toward your heart. ... Elevation. ... Massage. ... Compression. ... Protection. ... Reduce salt intake.Dec 1, 2020
Why do my ankles swell?
12 causes of swollen ankles. There are many different causes of swollen ankles. In most cases, swelling is due to injury or edema. The term edema means swelling due to the accumulation of excess fluid. It is particularly common in the lower leg, ankles, and feet.
Why does my foot swell?
A person may experience inflammation due to an injury on the ankle or foot. People who sustain an injury to the foot or ankle may experience inflammation in that area, causing it to appear swollen. An ankle sprain is one of the most common foot injuries.
Can cellulitis be life threatening?
Cellulitis can cause a range of symptoms, including redness, warm skin, and swelling that spreads rapidly. In rare cases, cellulitis can be life-threatening without treatment. People with cellulitis need to take antibiotics.
What is the swelling of the arm called?
Lymphedema is a type of swelling that affects the soft tissues in the arms or legs, including the ankles. It is due to a buildup of a fluid called lymph. This is mainly composed of white blood cells, which help fight infection.
What is the most common type of edema?
The most common type of edema is from chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). CVI is a condition that affects the valves in the leg veins. These valves usually make sure that blood flows toward the heart. In CVI, however, the valves malfunction and allow some of the blood to flow backward and pool in the lower legs and ankles.
How does DVT affect the heart?
DVT obstructs the flow of blood returning to the heart, causing it to build up in the affected limb. Sometimes, the body is able to compensate for the blockage by gradually diverting blood through smaller neighboring veins. Over time, these veins get larger and are able to drain blood from the limb.
Can preeclampsia cause headaches?
It can cause a variety of symptoms, including headaches, changes in vision, weight gain, and edema. Preeclampsia that occurs during pregnancy can also affect the fetus. It requires urgent medical treatment. Treatment may include medications to prevent seizures and lower blood pressure.
What causes swelling in the ankle?
Certain diseases like lupus increase inflammation throughout the body and may lead to swelling. Blood clot. A blockage in your vein (deep vein thrombosis or DVT) prevents blood from draining from the ankle and may travel to arteries in your lungs if not treated appropriately. Infection.
Why do my ankles swell?
Ankle. When the body holds on to too much fluid, it collects in the legs and ankles due to gravity. Swollen ankles can be caused by pregnancy, heart disease & overuse. Read below on swollen ankles or swelling of one ankle causes and treatment. We will also review the difference between one vs both ankles swelling.
How to tell if you have a broken ankle?
Swelling may be the most obvious sign of a broken or sprained ankle that may also be painful. Sitting still. Remaining seating for long periods of time, such as during an airplane ride, allows blood and fluid to pool in the ankles due to the force of gravity.
Can swelling be treated at home?
If you have some occasional swelling, the good news is that there are several treatments you can try in the comfort of your own home. These common-sense measures can reduce discomfort and get you back on your feet. If the swelling persists for a long period of time or becomes particularly severe or bothersome, then visit your doctor as medications and tests may be in order.
Why does my leg swell up?
Swelling can also be caused by problems with fluid balance. When the body holds on to too much fluid, it collects in the legs and ankles due to gravity.
What does a doctor look for in a swollen heart?
Detailed physical examination. Your doctor will examine the area of swelling but will also look for signs of problems with your heart, kidneys, and liver as these can lead to swelling throughout the body.
Why does my foot swell?
A swollen foot may be caused blood vessel blockage, lymphatic blockage, or trauma from an injury. Other causes of swelling in one foot include skin infections like cellulitis, or ankle arthritis which can also be the cause of one swollen ankle.
What to do for swollen ankles?
We’ll reveal 15 of those remedies right here. Keep in mind that these remedies work on the symptoms of swollen ankles, but are not all-inclusive cures. Swollen ankles might be pointing to a much more serious health issue which will require the advice and treatment of a healthcare professional. 1. Coriander Seeds.
How to get rid of swollen ankles fast?
An effective herbal remedy for how to get rid of swollen ankles fast is parsley. This powerful little herb is among the best natural diuretics which will help rid your body of excess liquid by increasing urine output. This helps you to avoid water retention leading to swollen ankles.
How to reduce swelling in feet?
Elevation: Elevating the foot or ankle above heart level will help reduce swelling. 2. Infection. An infection in the feet, ankles, and lower legs can cause swelling in this area. People who have diabetes are at increased risk of developing an infection in their feet.
What causes a person's ankles to swell?
A blood clot in the legs can cause a person’s ankles and legs to swell. Blood clots in the legs tend to develop on one side of the limb. There are two main types of blood clot: superficial blood clots, which occur in a vein closer to the surface of the skin.
Why do my legs swell up?
Below are eight potential causes of swollen legs and ankles. 1. Injury to the foot or ankle. An injury to the foot or ankle could cause swelling in the ankle and lower leg. One of the most common causes of injuries to this area is a sprained ankle. A sprained ankle can occur as a result of a simple misstep, or a sports or exercise injury.
What is the best treatment for a foot injury?
The most common treatment for foot or ankle injuries is the RICE procedure. RICE is an acronym which stands for: Rest: Resting the affected foot helps to prevent further damage. Ice: Applying ice to the injury helps to numb pain and reduce swelling. People should wrap ice in a towel before applying it to the skin.
What is it called when lymph nodes are damaged?
Lymphedema is a condition in which excess fluid accumulates in the body’s tissues, causing swelling. Lymphedema occurs when a person’s lymph nodes become damaged or are absent due to surgical removal.
How do you know if you have a blood clot?
A person should seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of the following symptoms of a blood clot: swelling and pain in one leg. a heavy ache in the affected leg. an area of warm skin on the affected leg. an area of red skin behind and below the knee. a change in the color of the leg. low grade fever.
What causes a sprained ankle?
A sprained ankle can occur as a result of a simple misstep, or a sports or exercise injury. It happens when the ligaments that connect the ankle to the foot and leg are pulled out of alignment. A person who has a sprained ankle may experience pain and limited mobility in the ankle or foot. Treatment.
How to treat swollen ankles in elderly?
If your case of ankle swelling is not due to any serious causes, simply relieving the pressure will be enough to decrease pain and swelling. Lifting your feet onto a sofa or chair can be a great option for swollen ankles in elderly treatment. Placing an ice pack on the raised ankle may also provide ...
What is swelling in ankles?
This results in trapped fluids in the intracellular spaces, leading patients to experience swelling in places such as the ankles. Edema can be a sign of a serious medical condition, as it is also seen as heart failure, kidney failure, and liver failure.
How to tell if your ankle is swollen?
Depending on the underlying cause, swollen ankles differ between cases. Also, swelling that occurs in one leg and swelling that occurs in both can be a useful sign for physicians to rule out potential causes. The following are some of the most common symptoms experienced in those affected by swollen ankles: 1 Skin that is easily indented (pitting edema) 2 Indentations seen when removing shoes or socks 3 Skin color that is often normal or slightly pale, however, with indentations that appear slightly darker 4 Swelling that resolves when raising feet higher than heart level (minor cases) 5 Swelling that doesn’t resolve when raising feet higher than heart level (serious cases) 6 Skin that is more rigid, reddish, and possibly discolored or mottled (serious cases)
How to do ankle pumps?
Ankle pumps: Start by lying down on your back, or if you prefer, you can do this exercise while seated. While making sure your feet are elevated, point your toes toward your head and point your toes in the opposite direction. Perform about 30 repetitions for three times a day.
Why does gout cause pain?
Gout occurs due to the accumulation of urate crystals in the joint, causing inflammation and intense pain. These crystals can form when you have high uric acid in the blood. Your body innately produces uric acid when it breaks down purines—substances that are found naturally in the body as well as in certain foods such as steak, organ meats, and seafood. Other foods that promote higher levels of uric acid include alcoholic beverages and drinks sweetened with fructose (fruit sugar).
What is the term for swelling under the skin?
Edema. This is the medical term for swelling and it’s characterized by poor circulation within the body, leading to fluid accumulation under the skin. Edema increases in occurrence with age, as veins stop functioning normally.
Why do my ankles swell up?
There are many forms of arthritis, but they all have inflammation in common, which leads to joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Autoimmune conditions, disease, and simply getting older can lead to the development of arthritis, which can present as swollen ankles.
What causes swelling in the ankles?
Painless swelling of the feet or ankles is common and can happen for a variety of reasons. Causes of swollen feet can include: 1 staying on your feet too long 2 ill-fitting shoes 3 pregnancy 4 lifestyle factors 5 certain medical conditions
How to help swollen feet?
Massage can be great for swollen feet and can also promote relaxation. Massage (or have someone massage them for you!) your feet toward your heart with firm strokes and some pressure. This can help move the fluid out of the area and reduce swelling.
Why do my feet swell?
Painless swelling of the feet or ankles is common and can happen for a variety of reasons. Causes of swollen feet can include: staying on your feet too long. ill-fitting shoes. pregnancy.
How to reduce swelling in a swollen ear?
Here are 10 to try. 1. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day. Though it might seem counterintuitive, getting enough fluids actually helps reduce swelling.
How to reduce swelling in feet while pregnant?
If you’re looking to reduce foot swelling while pregnant, try elevating your feet several times a day as well. Aim for about 20 minutes at a time, even on an ottoman or a chair. Try to avoid standing for long periods of time and stay off your feet when you can. 5. Get moving!
Does Epsom salt help with muscle pain?
Epsom salt ( magnesium sulfate) may not only help with muscle pain. It may also reduce swelling and inflammation. The theory is that Epsom salt draws out toxins and increases relaxation.
Does fluid help with swelling?
Though it might seem counterintuitive, getting enough fluids actually helps reduce swelling. When your body isn’t hydrated enough, it holds onto the fluid it does have. This contributes to swelling.
How to reduce swelling in ankle?
To reduce the swelling from a foot or ankle injury, rest to avoid walking on the injured ankle or foot, use ice packs, wrap the foot or ankle with compression bandage, and elevate the foot on a stool or pillow. If swelling and pain is severe or doesn't improve with home treatment, see your doctor.
Why do my ankles swell?
Swelling of the ankles and feet is often an early symptom of venous insufficiency, a condition in which blood inadequately moves up the veins from the legs and feet up to the heart. Normally, the veins keep blood flowing upward with one-way valves.
What happens if you have venous insufficiency?
If you experience signs of venous insufficiency you should see your doctor. Find out more about chronic venous insufficiency. Infection. Swelling in the feet and ankles can be a sign of infection .
Why do my ankles swell in the evening?
Ankles that swell in the evening could be a sign of retaining salt and water because of right-sided heart failure. Kidney disease can also cause foot and ankle swelling.
What to do if you have swelling in one leg?
If you have swelling in one leg, along with pain, low-grade fever, and possibly a change in color of the affected leg, call your doctor immediately. Treatment with blood thinners may be necessary. Learn more about deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Heart, liver, or kidney disease.
Can kidney disease cause swelling in ankles?
Kidney disease can also cause foot and ankle swelling. When kidneys are not functioning properly, fluid can build up in the body. Liver disease can affect the liver's production of a protein called albumin, which keeps the blood from leaking out of the blood vessels into the surrounding tissues.
What to do if you feel short of breath?
If you feel short of breath or have chest pain, pressure, or tightness, call 911. Learn more about kidney disease and its symptoms. Medication side effect. Many drugs can cause swelling in the feet and ankles as a possible side effect.
