Swollen Feet: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention
What are Swollen Feet?
Swollen Feet is a condition where the muscles in the feet have an excessive build-up of fluid. Gravity pulls the fluids to your feet and ankles, causing them to swell.
What causes Swollen Feet?
Swelling can be caused by a serious condition of the kidney, heart, liver or blood vessels. Some other causes of swelling are:
• Eating a poor diet high in salt and carbohydrates • Taking birth control or hormone replacement therapy pills • Pregnancy • PMS • Sodium retention • Muscle injury • Varicose veins • History of phlebitis • Allergic reactions • Neuromuscular disorders
Treatment and prevention of Swollen Feet
Treatment of Swollen Feet/Swollen foot will depend on the cause of the swelling. One of the first treatment options is to elevate the legs above the level of the heart. Anti-inflammatory medicine can also help reduce swelling.
• Cut back on salt • Drink plenty of water • Put your feet up Lying on your back, rest your feet at least 12 inches above the level of your heart for 10 to 15 minutes, three or four times a day. • Use support stockings • Exercise regularly • Avoid standing in place for long period of time • Avoid long periods of sitting • Lose excess weight
This information is for guidance only. If you are in doubt at all, please consult your nearest health professional.