Swelling in the ankles can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Prolonged standing or sitting: This can cause fluid to accumulate in the lower legs and feet, leading to swelling.

• Injury or surgery: Swelling may occur after an injury or surgery involving the leg, ankle, or foot.

• Venous insufficiency: This is a condition in which blood inadequately moves up the veins from the legs and feet up to the heart. When the valves in leg veins become damaged or weakened, the blood leaks back down the vessels and fluid is retained in the soft tissue of the lower legs, especially the ankles and feet.

• Heart, liver, or kidney disease: Swelling can indicate a problem such as heart, liver, or kidney disease. Ankles that swell in the evening could be a sign of retaining salt and water because of right-sided heart failure. Kidney disease can also cause foot and ankle swelling.

• Warm temperatures: The small blood vessels in the skin dilate to allow heat to escape, which helps keep body temperature from rising. But this also means more than the usual amount of fluid can leak into the surrounding tissues, especially in the legs.

• Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants and hormones, can cause swelling in the legs and feet.

If you experience swelling in your ankles, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause. In some cases, swelling can be a sign of a serious underlying condition.