We naturally use our legs to walk and the ankles support this function, putting them through the most pressure on them and gravitational pull. We all have experienced swollen ankles or feet at some point in our lives. Usually after long periods of standing or sitting. Most of the time, this leg swelling is not serious, but when leg swelling comes with other symptoms then it may be a concern.
Medically, swelling due to fluid retention is often referred to as “edema” and swelling in the ankles and legs is called “peripheral edema”.
What are the causes of edema?
Swelling of the feet, ankles, and the legs is usually caused by several factors and ruling out one may be difficult. Some of the common causes of swollen legs and ankles include:
- Long sitting or standing
- Certain medications
- Injury
- Eating food high in salt
Some medical conditions are also responsible for leg swelling, they include:
- Poor circulation
- Pregnancy
- Heart disorders
- Kidney issues.
Is swollen legs painful?
Swollen legs may feel heavy when you walk around, but they do not generally cause any pain. But it is normal to have a slight discomfort as the skin stretches due to fluid retention. If the discomfort is bothering, seek out for leg swelling treatment to find relief
What are the challenges faced in your daily life if you have swollen legs?
Nobody likes even slight discomfort when it comes to their daily life activities. Swollen legs even though they do not cause any pain can impact your daily life in various ways. Here’s how it can,
Physical discomfort and mobility challenges:
The immediate reaction of swollen legs and ankles is that it brings physical discomfort in leg. People with leg swelling usually experience heaviness, pain, and feeling of tightness in the lower legs and ankles. When these symptoms begin it may be difficult to carry over even a simple task.
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Limited mobility:
Going on with your daily activities becomes an impossible challenge as mobility is decreased. Even simplest tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting or standing still can be difficult and exhausting.
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Sleep disturbances:
Swollen legs and ankles can cause disturbances in your sleep pattern. Usually the discomfort may be severe during the night which may be difficult to fall asleep in your comfortable position. This is why people with edema may face insomnia or sleep disturbances leading to physical and emotional trouble.
Emotional challenges due to swollen legs and ankles:
More than physical challenges, swollen legs and ankles can have an impact on mental and emotional health. The constant fight between physical discomfort and challenges while getting adjusted to the new routine can lead to several emotional problems.
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Anxiety and depression:
Once you get swelling in the legs and ankles it can create a sense of confusion and anxiety as you may not know why this keeps happening. As the condition gets severe, mental health can have a deep impact as pain and discomfort may increase.
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Body image concerns:
Constant swelling in the legs and ankles can lead visible changes in the lower limbs. And it may change the overall look of certain people, and this can be a concern leading to body image issues. And this can cause lack of confidence.
Social restrictions:
Swollen legs and ankles can also affect a person’s social life, as it restricts you from participating in any social events.
Workplace challenges:
In a professional workplace, swollen legs and ankles can show different challenges in everyday life. Especially in jobs that require excessive sitting or standing can be difficult.
When should you seek help for swollen legs and ankles?
Most of the time, as mentioned above swelling in the ankles and legs isn’t a concern. But at times it can be a sign of underlying issues. Keep in mind to seek medical help if,
- You have been diagnosed with heart, liver, or kidney issues and experiencing leg swelling
- The swollen and red in color and feels warm when touched
- Your fever has increased
- You are pregnant
- Certain home remedies are not helping
- The swelling seems to get worse.
If these symptoms continue, seeking a leg swelling treatment in Coimbatore is needed to avoid any major complications and diagnose any underlying issues.
Is leg swelling considered dangerous?
If your legs swell for no reason, get medical attention right away. This is especially important if you have other warning signs of a blood clot in the lungs or a heart condition, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or unexplained leg pain. As there can be several reasons for swollen ankles, diagnosing them is important.
What are the tips to prevent the swelling of legs and ankles?
When the swelling in the legs and ankles is related to an underlying condition you cannot actually prevent, but when certain tips are followed swelling of the legs and ankles can be prevented to a certain extent. The tips to prevent swelling of the legs and ankles include:
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Exercise regularly:
We all might have exercising regularly has various benefits and similarly regular exercise helps in preventing leg swelling and improves blood circulation.
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Avoid prolonged standing or sitting:
If you are someone who spends a long time sitting or standing, try changing your position for every few hours to avoid circulation problems.
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Keep an eye on your salt intake:
Excessive consumption of salt may also cause leg swelling. It is important to reduce salt intake to ensure overall health.
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Elevate your legs:
If you are someone who experiences constant swelling in the legs, keep your legs elevated while sitting or sleeping as this helps in calming the swelling and promotes blood circulation.
Important Takeaway:
The impact of swollen legs and ankles on a daily basis goes beyond physical discomfort, and also affects mental health. By awareness, promoting remedies, and learning leg swelling treatment options for swollen legs can help in overcoming the swelling. Talk to a leg swelling specialist in Coimbatore if you notice your leg swelling does not seem to be improving.
