Managing swollen feet, ankles and legs

by Tina Y. Gerber - McCurley

I was leaving my granddaughter's 12th birthday party and I couldn't fit into my shoes to drive home! Swelling in my feet, ankles and legs happens every spring and summer. I also must remove my rings, until late autumn when the weather cools down.

The impact of edema can range from lifestyle choices to serious health conditions.

Edema is the medical term for swelling caused by too much fluid trapped in the body's tissue, often your feet, ankles and legs but it can affect any part of the body. Edema will even cause parts of your body to increase in size, possibly preventing you from completing the activities of daily living.

Edema may affect anyone, especially pregnant women and adults age 65 and older. Many individuals find the swelling can make it difficult to walk comfortably, fit into shoes or even enjoy activities like gardening, tennis, or shopping. This can lead to decreased physical activity, and can impact your overall health and well-being.

Fluid retention in your lower limbs can occur if you sit, or stand for long period of times. When you remain sedentary for extended period of times, fluids can accumulate in your lower legs, due to gravity and decreased circulation. It's important to take regular breaks, move around to stretch your legs, stand up, and walk around every few minutes, especially if you have a desk job. When you are sitting or lying down, put a pillow under your legs to keep them elevated above the level of your heart. When your muscles are inactive, they can't pump body fluids back up towards the heart. This retention of water and blood can also occur as a result of taking certain medications.

While swelling in your feet, ankles, and legs doesn't usually pose a significant health risk, it's important and can sometimes indicate a serious underlying medical issue which needs to be addressed. If you've noticed new or worsening leg swelling, it's important to be evaluated so you won't begin suffering from a serious problem involving the heart, liver or kidneys. Talk with your doctor or health care professional.

Engage in a regular exercise routine: such as walking, swimming, golfing, or gardening to maintain and improve circulation and reduce fluid buildup in your lower extremities. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and exercise can make a difference in your overall health.