What Helps with Foot Swelling? How Does Foot Swelling Go Away?

Foot swelling typically occurs due to excess fluid accumulation in the body or circulation issues, often seen in the feet and ankles. It can be uncomfortable and may restrict daily activities. Foot swelling can occur in anyone, particularly affecting pregnant individuals and adults aged 65 and older. Swelling can happen in both feet or may be unilateral. Treatment includes lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. In some cases, swelling may indicate a more serious underlying health issue. If foot swelling arises as a symptom of a serious medical condition, treatment may be planned by a doctor based on the underlying cause.

What Causes Foot Swelling?

Foot swelling is caused by fluid retention in the tissues. Unless it is due to an injury, fluid accumulation is usually not painful. Swelling is more pronounced in the lower parts of the body due to gravity. Some of the causes of foot swelling include:

• Circulation issues: One of the most common causes of foot swelling is circulation problems. Conditions such as venous insufficiency, varicose veins, lymphedema, and thrombophlebitis can lead to swelling in the feet. These conditions involve situations that prevent blood from returning from the feet to the heart or disrupt the normal circulation of lymph fluid.
• Pregnancy: It is normal to have some swelling in the ankles and feet during pregnancy. However, sudden or excessive swelling may be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. If severe swelling is accompanied by abdominal pain, infrequent urination, nausea and vomiting, or vision disturbances, immediate medical attention is required.
• Prolonged immobility: Standing or sitting for extended periods can cause foot swelling. Gravity can cause excess fluid to accumulate in the feet. This condition can be experienced by office workers, those who stand for long periods, or during air travel.
• Injury or infection: An injury or infection can increase blood flow to the foot area, presenting as swelling. One of the most common types of injury that causes swelling in the feet is an ankle sprain.
• Blood clots: A blood clot in a vein can obstruct blood flow, leading to swelling and discomfort.
• Pericarditis: In individuals with pericarditis, the membrane around the heart becomes inflamed for an extended period. This inflammation can lead to impaired respiratory function and severe, chronic swelling in the foot area.
• Lymphedema: Lymphedema is a condition that manifests as a blockage in the lymphatic system. A blockage in the lymphatic system can cause swelling in the tissues.
• Preeclampsia: Preeclampsia causes high blood pressure in pregnant women. Increased blood pressure can lead to weakened circulation and swelling in the foot area.
• Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is liver damage caused by hepatitis B or C infection. This condition can lead to high blood pressure and circulatory problems in the feet, legs, and ankles.
• Heart, kidney, or liver diseases: Serious medical conditions such as heart failure, kidney diseases, or liver problems can increase fluid retention in the body, leading to foot swelling.
• High salt intake: Consuming a high amount of salt can cause water retention in the body, resulting in foot swelling. Therefore, it is important to avoid excessive salt intake.
• Medication side effects: Some medications, such as those for blood pressure or pain relief, can cause foot swelling.
• Obesity: Individuals with excessive body mass may experience reduced circulation, leading to swelling in the foot area.

What Helps with Foot Swelling?

The treatment for foot swelling may vary based on several factors. Here are some treatment methods that may help with foot swelling under medical supervision:

• Conditions related to edema: Edema may resolve on its own or indicate an underlying medical condition requiring treatment. Wearing support stockings, reducing salt intake, and elevating the legs above the chest can be beneficial. If swelling does not improve, a follow-up with a doctor is necessary to determine underlying causes.
• Injury to the foot or ankle: To treat a foot or ankle injury, doctors may recommend elevating the feet in mild, non-serious cases to improve circulation. This facilitates the return of blood to the heart and reduces fluid accumulation. Pillows or cushions can be used to elevate the feet above heart level. Additionally, pain relievers prescribed by a doctor may help alleviate discomfort.
• Pregnancy: To treat swollen feet during pregnancy, women can elevate their feet as much as possible, wear comfortable and supportive shoes, and avoid standing for long periods.
• Treating underlying causes: If foot swelling is a symptom of an underlying medical condition, it is important to treat that condition. Conditions such as heart failure, kidney diseases, lymphedema, or varicose veins may require treatment targeting the underlying issues.
• Warm and cold compresses: Applying heat or cold can help reduce swelling. Warm compresses relax the muscles, while cold compresses can reduce inflammation.
• Exercise and movement: Regular exercise under medical supervision can improve circulation and help prevent foot swelling. Low-impact exercises, such as walking, can enhance circulation and reduce foot swelling.
• Compression stockings: Compression stockings or bands recommended by a doctor can help reduce foot swelling. These special stockings or bands prevent fluid accumulation in the feet by enhancing circulation in the legs.

How to Treat Swollen Feet at Home?

There are various treatment methods that can be applied at home under a doctor's supervision for swollen feet. These methods can help alleviate the swelling:

• Elevating the legs above heart level by placing pillows under them while sleeping
• Staying active, stretching, and moving the legs
• Reducing salt intake
• Avoiding tight clothing
• Wearing comfortable shoes
• Maintaining a healthy body weight
• Wearing support stockings or compression socks
• Not sitting or remaining inactive for extended periods
• Ensuring adequate fluid intake
• Applying hot or cold compresses

How to Prevent Swollen Feet?

A few simple steps can be taken under a doctor's supervision to prevent foot swelling. Some measures to prevent swelling include:

• Regular exercise under a doctor’s supervision
• Eating a balanced diet while avoiding high salt and processed foods
• Ensuring adequate fluid intake
• Elevating the feet while lying down
• Wearing comfortable shoes
• Avoiding tight clothing
• Avoiding prolonged standing or sitting
• Using compression socks for those who stand for long periods or travel

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Symptoms of Swollen Feet?

Swollen feet typically manifest as visible swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs. This swelling often increases as the day progresses and may be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the feet. Swelling can also cause symptoms like skin hardening, changes in skin brightness, or skin tightness.

Does Swollen Feet Recur?

Swollen feet can recur, as they may be related to many different causes, some of which can be chronic or ongoing health issues.

Swollen feet can negatively impact a person's daily life. Orthopedic doctors typically play a role in treating foot swelling. However, depending on the underlying cause of the swelling, doctors from different specialties may also be involved in the diagnosis and treatment. Individuals with foot swelling can begin treatment by scheduling appointments with relevant outpatient clinics in hospitals based on their underlying conditions.