Edema (or swelling) of the lower limbs is common in older adults. The most common cause (about 70%) of leg edema is due to Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). Other serious causes of edema include congestive heart failure, kidney disease, and liver disease.

What do swollen ankles mean in elderly?

Legs, ankles, and feet swell when excess fluid is pulled down by gravity and builds up in the lower body. This is called edema and it’s common in older adults and usually happens on both sides of the body. It can be caused by a variety of health conditions including heart failure, kidney disease, gout, and arthritis.

What helps swollen ankles in elderly?

Home Care

1. Put your legs on pillows to raise them above your heart while lying down.
2. Exercise your legs.
3. Follow a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid buildup and swelling.
4. Wear support stockings (sold at most drugstores and medical supply stores).
5. When traveling, take breaks often to stand up and move around.

When should I be concerned about swollen ankles?

If your swelling is accompanied by other symptoms, including fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight gain, see your doctor right away. If you feel short of breath or have chest pain, pressure, or tightness, call 911.

How do you get rid of swollen ankles fast?

7 Helpful Ways to Reduce Swollen Feet and Ankles

1. Walk it Out.
2. Drink Lots of Water.
3. Sleep on Your Side.
4. Enjoy Some Pool Time.
5. Limit Your Salt.
6. Wear Compression Socks.
7. Elevate Your Feet.

What medications cause swollen ankles?

Medications that may cause the feet to swell include:

• hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone.
• calcium-channel blockers that help control blood pressure.
• steroids, both androgenic and anabolic, and corticosteroids.
• antidepressants.
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
• medication to help manage diabetes.

Does walking help with swollen ankles?

Tips to reduce ankle and foot swelling Simple lifestyle changes — such as exercise and weight loss — also can help reduce or prevent swelling while also improving your overall health, says Dr. Botek. She suggested activities such as walking and swimming.

Can high blood pressure medication cause swollen ankles?

The most common side effects include headache, flushing, feeling tired and swollen ankles. These usually improve after a few days. Amlodipine can be called amlodipine besilate, amlodipine maleate or amlodipine mesilate.

Is walking good for edema?

The best weapon in the fight against swollen legs is a simple one: walking. Getting your legs moving means circulation is improved which will sweep up that collected fluid and get it shifted.

What happens if edema is left untreated?

If left untreated, edema can lead to increasingly painful swelling, stiffness, difficulty walking, stretched or itchy skin, skin ulcers, scarring, and decreased blood circulation.

Does swollen ankles mean heart failure?

Swelling of the feet is a common sign of heart failure. You may also notice swelling in your legs, ankles, and stomach. Many things can cause swelling, so it’s important to see your doctor to diagnose the cause.

Should I go to the doctor for swollen ankles?

When the cause is minor or temporary, swollen ankles are often treatable at home, but there are some cases when they need to be treated by a doctor. In these situations, swollen ankles could be a sign of a serious illness. If your swollen ankles occur along with shortness of breath or chest pain, call 911.

Does dehydration cause swelling in ankles?

This will help to get the circulation working and thus prevent water retention in the legs and ankles. Stay Hydrated – dehydration causes the constriction of blood vessels leading to the forcing of fluids into the extracellular spaces between cells leading to retention particularly in the lower limbs.

What is a good home remedy for swollen ankles?

Here are 10 to try.

• Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day.
• Buy compression socks.
• Soak in a cool Epsom salt bath for about 15 to 20 minutes.
• Elevate your feet, preferably above your heart.
• Get moving!
• Magnesium supplements can be helpful for some people.
• Make some dietary changes.
• Lose weight if you’re overweight.

What foods cause feet to swell?

Foods that can cause inflammation

• White bread.
• Pastries.
• Soda.
• Sweetened beverages.
• Cookies.
• Cereals.
• Granola bars.

Is vinegar good for swollen feet?

ACV is known to have a high potassium content, which in turn can help reduce fluid retention. Soak a clean cotton towel in a tub filled with equal parts of ACV and warm water. After squeezing out the excess, wrap your feet in the towel, sit back and relax for about 15 to 20 minutes.