A swollen foot is a sign of other healthy problems even though at times it affects healthy people. If you have a swollen foot it is advisable that you consult a specialist immediately as it may be a sign of a serious illness.
Causes of temporary swelling
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Swelling may be due to fluid retention in the tissues. Most often, healthy people get affected after standing for long periods. For instance, if you don’t sit down at work, your legs will inevitably get swollen by the time the day ends. However, even long hours of sitting can also cause swollen legs.
The foot can be swollen from an injury such when stretching ankle ligaments. The swelling will indicate how serious the injury was. If the foot is swollen after a fall or blow and the pain does not subside, it may mean that the damage is too strong and you need intervention from a doctor.
The legs may also be swollen if you have a poor diet. Consumption of excess salt and alcoholic drinks will make the water that accumulates in the body difficult to eliminate.
Absorption of fluids can be affected when you take different forms of medications especially in the form of drips. In such a situation, as soon as you are done with therapy, the swelling will subside on its own. People who are obese also suffer from frequent fluid retention in their legs because of too much stress. Swelling can also be as a result of lifting weights and intense training.
Swelling can also be due to lifting weight and intense training and in women it is because they begin to snack as a result of hormonal changes for instance during pregnancy.
What diseases can swollen the foot?
Fluid retention is not always due to external swelling but because of internal organs. If you realise tat you have a swollen foot amid a malaise it is ideal that you go for a check-up from a specialist.
What pathologies can cause swelling of the legs?
First of all, it is necessary to examine the kidneys – they most often provoke swelling. If they are unable to cope with a large amount of fluid consumed due to the disease, it will inevitably linger in the limbs.
- Pathologies of the cardiovascular system will make the heart not to withstand the load. Pressure will drop and blood in the lymph will begin to stagnate in the lower parts of the body.
- Rheumatism and joint destruction are also caused by the same thing; disruption of blood circulation the joint becomes inflamed and the area around the sore begins to swell.
- Varicose veins which leads to fluid stagnation due to weak vessels. The legs will begin to swell usually at night but overnight the condition comes back to normal.
- Liver disease and hormonal disorders lead to poor metabolism and with this the body will absorb fluid in the wrong way.
What diagnostics can help?
The doctor will begin by perfuming a visual examination. If you have a history of other diseases especially chronic diseases, ensure that you tell the doctor so that the diagnosis can be simpler. After this examination, you will go further tests that involve the following:
- They will take an unwrapped blood test and check for clotting.
- Will make an ECG.
- Test the blood for hormones.
- An ultrasound of the veins and arteries of the lower extremities, as well as ultrasound of the abdominal cavity and pelvic floor to determine diseases of internal organs.
- Will make an MRI and CT scan to more accurately localize the problem place.
According to the results of the tests it will be possible to determine the location of the pathology and consult a specific specialist. The cardiologist will be consulted if the disease is related to the heart, a phlebologist if it is related to the blood vessels. A nephrologist and urologist will be consulted if the patient has kidney problems and endocrinologist for conditions related to the hormones.
How do I remove the swelling of my foot?
Treatment differs according to he cause of the swelling. To relieve symptoms you will be under the prescription of diuretics, consumption of a special diet and compression clothing. If the pathology is related to internal organs, ensure that you follow the instructions of the physician so that the symptoms of the disease are relieved.
To get rid of temporary swelling or relieve symptoms before treatment you can lie down upside down and raise the legs and place a pillow under them, then massage them lightly from bottom to top.
Prevention of foot swelling
If you are healthy but your legs continue to swell, you may be required to change your diet. This will begin with reducing the consumption of salt and spicy foods that retain the liquid. Monitor the amount of water that you drink as it should be not more than 2.5 litres in a day.
When you are sitting or standing for long periods ensure that you take short breaks in between so that you may stretch your legs. Ensure that you do not wear high heels all day.
If all these measures do not help, then ensure that you visit the doctor immediately. Even if you do not have any underlying health conditions, a qualified doctor will assist you in finding the right cure for the unpleasant symptoms, making your life more comfortable.
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