Generally, swelling in the foot, leg, and ankle are known as peripheral edema — defined as the build-up of fluid in these parts of the body.

The buildup of fluid isn’t usually painful unless it was caused by an injury. Swelling of these parts of the body are often more apparent in the lower areas of the body because of the pull of gravity.

Swelling in the foot, leg, and ankle are mostly common in older adults and can occur in one or more areas.

Swollen feet are caused by different conditions and factors. Here are the following possible causes for a swollen feet:

• Pregnancy

• Edema

• Certain medications

• Injuries

• Diseases such as alcoholism, liver failure, or heart failure

• Infections

• Varicose veins

• Blood clots such as a vein thrombosis

• Lymphedema

• Sitting or standing for long periods of time

• Obesity

One of the most common causes for this condition is simply staying in one position for a long time such as people working in an office setting and working 8 hours or more a day for 5 days a week.

This can possibly result in swollen feet, ankles, and legs. Symptoms of swollen feet depend on the underlying cause.

Its symptoms may range from painless increase in food and ankle size to skin changes specifically its color and texture which may happen to one or both ankles. Other symptoms may include ulcerations with pus along with having warm skin.

The usual diagnosis for swollen feet is done by clinical observation and physical examination. These tests are ordered to check for any underlying causes.

While symptoms vary, treatment for swollen feet and ankles are also dependent on diagnosing the underlying cause(s).

In addition to that, complications also vary according to the underlying condition.

Generally, swelling feet and ankles are caused by dependent pregnancy, edema, medications, and other certain diseases.

When you have swollen feet and ankles, it usually begins as a soft and puffy skin in the feet which rapidly spreads throughout the ankles and sometimes the legs.

In a swollen foot, the skin is easily pressed and slowly returns to its puffy form. The skin color for a swollen foot or ankle is often normal or slightly pale.

While swelling on the feet and ankles aren’t a cause for concern, there is still a possibility for something more serious to occur,

Here are some warning signs that may lead to something serious. Check with your doctor if you have these conditions and experience these symptoms:

• If you have a heart or kidney disease

• If you have a liver disease

• If you have swollen red areas that feel warm to the touch

• If your body temperature is higher than usual

• If you’re pregnant

• If the swelling is getting worse

• If you experience pain and pressure in the chest

• If you feel lightheaded

• If you have trouble breathing or have shortness of breath

For milder cases, you can try these natural remedies for swollen feet:

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Grapefruit oil

Based on several studies, grapefruit essential oil is a great oil for reducing swelling. The oil is known to contain anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties which helps reduce swelling during pregnancy.

You can just simply add a few drops of grapefruit essential oil in a warm bath tub. Or you can also add grapefruit oil to a bucket of lukewarm water and soak your feet.

Lemon and cucumber water

Instead of drinking your usual bland water, you can add a few slices of cucumber and lemon to it.

Cucumber and lemon both have anti-inflammatory properties which are beneficial in treating swollen feet.

Additionally, there are times when swollen feet are caused by fluid retention. One of the simplest ways to reduce swelling is to get a slice of cucumber and apply it directly on the affected area.

Coriander seeds

Coriander seeds have been popularly used in Ayurvedic treatment for swelling. Coriander seeds contain anti-inflammatory properties which are a great factor in reducing the pain and swelling.

All you need to do is add 2 to 3 teaspoons of coriander seeds with a cup of water and boil it until the quantity reduces by half, then you can strain the solution. You can either use this to soak your feet in it or as a beverage.

Increase potassium intake

A deficiency in potassium can lead to water retention. For people with dietary restrictions, it is best to consume potassium through eating or drinking foods rich in potassium. Some potassium-rich foods are:

• White beans

• Bananas

• Salmon

• Chicken

• Pistachios

• Sweet potatoes

Reduce some weight if you are overweight

Obesity or being overweight may lead to several conditions such as reduced blood circulation, which results in swelling of the lower extremities and can also create extra strain on the feet, making it painful to walk.

Through losing weight, you can help reduce the strain on your feet and also reduce swelling in the foot,

Epsom salt bath

Epsom salt or magnesium sulfate is beneficial for treating muscle pain, swelling, and inflammation.

This is due to the theory stating that Epsom salt helps draw out toxins and at the same time, increases relaxation. You can try this out by using it as a bath salt.

Elevate your feet

To reduce swelling in the feet, you can just simply elevate your feet on top of a cushion or pillows.

This is especially normal akong pregnant women, because this is the simplest remedy for swollen feet. Try elevating your feet several times a day for 20 minutes at a time.

Eat magnesium-rich foods

If you have water retention, this might be possible because of magnesium deficiency. Consuming foods high in magnesium can help treat your swollen feet. You can try adding these magnesium-rich foods to your diet:

• Tofu

• Cashews

• Spinach

• Almonds

• Broccoli

• Dark chocolate

• Avocados

Consuming about 200 to 400 milligrams of magnesium daily and this will help reduce the swelling on your feet.

Drink enough or plenty of water

This is the most beneficial remedy for any condition and is also one of the most essential factors you need in your body.

When your body isn’t hydrated, then your body will hold onto the other fluids it has. This often occurs when you eat food rich in sodium and not drinking enough water.

The sodium and dehydration can cause swelling in the feet, So remember to reduce the consumption of sodium-rich foods and increase the intake of water.