Ankle edema is a common condition caused by a buildup of fluid in the ankle tissue. It can be caused by various factors, including poor circulation, trauma, and infections. Treatment options include home remedies, support stockings, and medical intervention if necessary.
An ankle edema is a buildup of fluid in the tissue cells of the ankle causing them to swell considerably. It is a form of idiopathic edema, which is any type of water retention in the body. There are many different causes for edema and they range from relatively harmless to life threatening.
Ankle edemas are quite common and can be caused by a myriad of things. Something as simple as standing for a long time can cause ankle swelling, as can long trips or airplane flights. Women are particularly prone to this condition, with both menstrual periods and pregnancy known to cause swollen ankles.
Some more serious causes of ankle edema can include trauma to the foot or leg, a reaction to a bite or sting, and a leg infection or blood clot. Burns, including sunburn, can also cause ankle swelling. Any condition that can cause poor circulation in the legs can also lead to the development of ankle edema.
Swelling in the ankle can be a sign of more severe swelling elsewhere in the body. Ankle edemas are sometimes symptoms of pulmonary edema, which is a swelling of the lung tissue. These edemas can cause severe shortness of breath and fatigue. In some cases, they can even be fatal. If ankle swelling is accompanied by chest pain or difficulty breathing, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Acute ankle edema usually goes away on its own. Home treatment for ankle swelling can be something as simple as raising your legs above your heart or increasing leg exercise. If ankle edema is chronic, it may be necessary to wear support stockings or anti-edema shoes. These help push fluid out of the feet and restore proper circulation.
If these treatments don’t work, your ankle edema should be examined by a doctor. In some cases, ankle swelling can be a symptom of a much more serious condition, such as diabetes, gout, or pancreatitis. In these cases, your doctor will most likely try to treat the condition causing the edema, which will hopefully cause the swelling to subside.
Treatment for recurrent or long-lasting edema can vary from person to person. A doctor will usually recommend a change in diet. Diuretics are also sometimes prescribed to increase water production of the kidneys, which can sometimes help reduce edemas.
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