Swollen feet and ankles (edema) happen when excess fluid accumulates in the tissues of the lower legs and feet. The causes range from everyday factors to medical conditions, and they can be temporary or progressive. Here’s a concise guide to what commonly leads to swelling, how to tell when to seek care, and what you can do. What commonly causes swelling

• Prolonged standing or sitting: Gravity can cause fluid to pool in the legs, especially after long trips or workdays.
• Salt or fluid balance changes: High salt intake or rapid changes in fluid status can promote fluid retention.
• Pregnancy: Increased blood and fluid volume, plus pressure from the uterus on leg veins, often causes swelling in the ankles and feet.
• Injury or surgery: Trauma to the leg, foot, or ankle can lead to localized swelling.
• Varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency: Damaged vein valves impede return of blood to the heart, leading to pooling in the legs.
• Medications: Certain drugs can cause edema, including some blood pressure medications (e.g., calcium channel blockers), hormonal therapies, steroids, and antidepressants.
• Medical conditions (potentially serious):
  • Heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease can cause generalized swelling.
  • Infections or inflammation in the leg can produce localized swelling.
• Other factors: pregnancy-related hormonal changes, obesity, or recent surgeries can contribute to swelling.

When swelling may indicate a more serious issue

• Sudden, unilateral swelling (one leg) with warmth, redness, or pain could signal a blood clot.
• Swelling with shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or sudden severe abdominal swelling may indicate urgent problems.
• Persistent swelling that doesn’t improve with rest or leg elevation, or swelling accompanied by weight gain, fatigue, or abdominal swelling, warrants medical evaluation.

What you can do to manage mild swelling

• Elevate your legs: Raise your feet above heart level for several times a day to help reduce fluid buildup.
• Move regularly: Light activity like walking or ankle pumps can improve circulation.
• Compression: Well-fitted compression socks or stockings can support venous return in the legs.
• Limit salt intake: Reducing sodium can help prevent fluid retention.
• Monitor medications and health factors: Review medicines with a clinician if you notice new or worsening swelling.
• Hydration and weight management: Adequate hydration and maintaining a healthy weight can help, but discuss with a clinician if fluid retention is ongoing.
• Address underlying conditions: If swelling is related to a known condition (heart, kidney, liver, thyroid issues), follow the treatment plan and follow up with your healthcare provider.

When to seek medical care urgently

• New, unexplained, or rapidly worsening swelling.
• Swelling accompanied by warmth, redness, and fever in one leg.
• Shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, severe abdominal swelling, or very sudden swelling after starting a new medication.

If you’d like, share any specifics about your situation (age, pregnancy status, recent changes in medicines, presence of shortness of breath, or kidney/heart conditions), and I can tailor the guidance and help you decide whether a clinician should be consulted promptly.