CLICK HERE TO CHECK YOUR BMI
Swollen feet after a long day might seem harmless, but if the swelling becomes frequent or persistent, it could signal something more serious. Known medically as peripheral edema, this condition occurs when excess fluid collects in body tissues – most noticeably in the feet, ankles, or legs due to gravity. While mild swelling can result from standing or sitting too long, chronic or bilateral swelling may point to an underlying condition. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, peripheral edema can stem from simple causes such as prolonged standing or high salt intake, but it may also indicate more serious conditions like heart, liver, or kidney disease, reported by TimesofIndia.com.
ALSO READ: What are Phytochemicals and how can they help prevent cancer and other chronic diseases?
SYMPTOMS OF HEART FAILURE
According to TimesofIndia.com, when swollen feet result from heart failure, it means the heart is struggling to pump blood effectively, causing fluid to back up in the veins and leak into surrounding tissues – most noticeably in the feet and ankles. This swelling, known as peripheral edema, is often one of the earliest visible signs. Other warning symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath (especially when lying flat), and sudden weight gain due to fluid buildup. Because the swelling can appear intermittently, it’s easy to overlook. However, persistent or recurring swelling should prompt a medical evaluation to rule out heart-related complications.
SYMPTOMS OF LIVER DISEASE
The liver produces essential proteins like albumin that help maintain proper fluid balance by keeping fluids within blood vessels, reported TimesofIndia.com. In advanced liver diseases such as cirrhosis, this process is disrupted, causing fluid to leak into surrounding tissues. As a result, swelling often appears in the feet, ankles, legs, or even the abdomen. This type of edema is frequently accompanied by other signs of liver dysfunction, including yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), spider veins, and easy bruising.
WHY FEET MATTER THE MOST
If you notice swelling in your feet or ankles, start by observing its pattern. Swelling in one leg could signal a blood clot, while both legs may point to circulation, heart, or liver issues. Observe when it appears – after long periods of standing or sitting, or without clear reason. Also, watch for other symptoms like breathlessness, chest pain, yellowing of the skin, or sudden weight gain. To manage mild swelling, elevate your legs, reduce salt intake, stay active, and avoid prolonged immobility. However, if the swelling is sudden, painful, or persistent, seek medical attention immediately. Foot and ankle swelling can be an early warning sign of heart failure, liver disease, or even a dangerous blood clot. Recognizing and acting on these symptoms early can help prevent serious complications, making this seemingly minor issue a potential lifesaver.
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR FEET
In case of different types of swelling, here are some effective ways to care for your feet and help prevent peripheral edema:
- Elevate your feet: Raise your legs on pillows above heart level for 15-20 minutes several times a day to promote fluid drainage.
- Keep moving: Avoid sitting or standing in one position too long. Take short walks or do simple exercises like ankle rotations to boost circulation.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Extra weight can strain circulation, so staying fit helps reduce swelling.
- Use compression socks: These improve blood flow and are ideal if you’re on your feet for long hours.
- Limit salt intake: Excess sodium causes fluid retention – opt for low-sodium meals and minimize processed foods.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out sodium and balance fluids.
- Massage regularly: Gently massage your feet upward toward your heart to improve circulation.
- Use cold packs or contrast soaks: Apply cold compresses for 15-20 minutes to reduce swelling or alternate warm and cold water soaks to enhance blood flow.
Disclaimer: The article is for general information or educational purposes only, and is not a medical advice. Please consult your doctor as this is not a substitute for professional help.