Having swollen feet is a common problem that can hinder your quality of life. By understanding what causes swollen feet, you can make smart choices to avoid swollen feet. It is also common to experience swelling in other related parts such as the ankles and knees, as well as hands.
This quick guide will help you know the possible causes and how to get rid of swollen feet fast.
So, what causes feet, ankles, and knees to swell?
It can be one or more of several causes. Those include:
- Edema
This is a condition where your body traps excess fluid in the tissues of your feet, legs, and ankles.
The water retention problem can also show up in your arms and/or hands.
- Circulatory concerns
If your heart isn’t able to pump blood to and from the feet effectively, your feet will swell as more fluid is retained in the veins of your feet tissue.
Health concerns that can cause or which have such impacts include heart failure, kidney disease, blood clots, and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).
- Lymphedema
If your lymph nodes have been removed as part of a treatment regimen or damaged through injury, your body may be unable to effectively flush lymphatic fluid. That can cause swollen feet, ankles, and knees.
- What you eat and drink
Drinking alcohol can cause fluid retention hence swollen feet as your body tries to fight dramatic water loss caused by the alcohol intake.
Eating a diet high in salt or spicy foods can have the same dehydrating effects.
- Other reasons for feet swelling
Sitting or standing too much can cause your feet to swell.
Some women experience swollen feet when pregnant, as well.
Hot weather is also a factor.
Liver disease causes swelling of the feet and hands, too.
And it could be an infection or the effects of certain medications you may be allergic to.
Whichever reason may be the cause, you are likely wondering: And how do I get rid of swollen feet fast?
Home remedies for swollen feet
These ones work.
- Take 2 diuretic anti-inflammation supplements per day to help your body maintain the critical electrolyte balance. Ensure it is a natural product with sufficient, safe, and active ingredients
- Reduce salt and spicy food intake
- Instead, soak your feet in an Epsom salt bath. Ensure the Epsom salt is USP designated by the FDA for safety and effectiveness
- Reduce alcohol intake, especially liquor followed by wine and beer, respectively.
- Drink sufficient water throughout the day
- Wear supportive stockings, starting with a compression socks pair that offers between 12-15mm of mercury
- Practice sleeping with your feet inclined above your heart’s level
- Eat potassium-rich foods such as bananas, yogurt, and leafy greens
Start follow the tips immediately to start reliving your swollen feet today.
If you use these tips and don’t get relief, experience increasing pain, the skin on your feet turns shiny/leathery, become short of breath, or have other symptoms, see your doctor immediately. It could be something serious.
