Tired feet and swollen ankles happen to just about all of us at one point or another in our lives. Sometimes it's easy to see (or remember) the causes and other times it can be a mystery. One thing is for certain, the condition should never be ignored. Here are seven reasons your ankles may be swollen.
1) Arthritis: Any of several forms of arthritis can attack your joints. When it occurs in the ankles and feet, it could be one of the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis, which attacks the smaller joints in most cases before it attacks the larger ones. Osteoarthritis and gout can also be culprits.
To find out which type of arthritis is causing the problem, the doctor will do several tests. X-rays, MRIs and blood tests can help. In the case of gout, you may be asked for a urine test as well. This problem can occur in one ankle or both.
Osteoarthritis and gout may be helped by a few home remedies, though you have to be careful if the diagnosis is RA. Counter irritants such as capsaicin can trick the brain into not issuing a pain signal. For gout, drinking cherry juice and/or eating cherries can be beneficial.
2) Heart Problems: If both ankles are swollen, heart disease may be part of the problem. The heart moves the blood around the body. If it is having problems, locations at a distance from the heart are likely to have sluggish movement, and edema may occur.
This can be checked in many ways. The pulses in your ankles will be taken, and one of several ultrasound tests may be required. You may need to do a stress test, as well. Depending on the results, you may need a procedure such as angioplasty and medications will probably be required. Ask the doctor if you can take Omega-3 fatty acids and garlic supplements. These can help reduce bad cholesterol, increase good cholesterol and perhaps lower blood pressure.
Heart disease will change your diet and lifestyle. Foods high in fat, cholesterol and sodium will need to be avoided. Fresh fruits and vegetables plus whole grains will be emphasized as will lean protein and fat free dairy. You will also need an exercise routine suitable to your condition.
3) Kidney Problems: When the kidneys are in trouble, swelling can occur in all extremities, especially the ankles. Blood and urine tests will determine how far the problem has progressed. Kidney disease will mean an even more vast change in your diet. You'll have to watch the proteins you eat, as it is hard for the organs to filter out the waste from them. You may have to restrict fluids and avoid some fruits and vegetables. Your doctor will give you a list of foods you can and shouldn't eat.
Herbal remedies are tricky with kidney disease. There are a few that may work with what your doctor prescribes, but you will have to work together to find the right combo. Dandelion root and parsley are two that could be beneficial.
4) Pregnancy: Being pregnant changes many things in your body. It is expected that your ankles will swell a little bit, but even that should be reported to your doctor. If they swell a lot or it starts fairly early in your pregnancy, it could be a serious and sometimes fatal condition. Pre-exlampsia and toxemia in pregnancy are both possible. Your doctor will check your blood pressure and your urine to help diagnose the problem.
Herbally, there are no treatments for these conditions. The doctor will probably order complete bedrest and prescribe medications that will help lower your blood pressure and prevent seizures. If these don't work, you may have to deliver the baby, even if it is premature. Following the doctor's orders are important for both you and the child.
5) Shoes: What footwear you choose can have an impact on your foot and ankle health. High heels and shoes with little ankle support can cause strains and sprains in the area. If you must wear high heels, have a professional help you choose those that are right for you.
6) Sprains: Damage to the ligaments in your ankle will cause the ankle to swell, sometimes dramatically. What treatment is used depends on the severity of the sprain. Minor injuries can be treated at home with home remedies, but severe sprains will require medical help.
RICE is the first and best treatment. This acronym stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. Counter irritants such as capsicum can help as well.
7) Standing: If your job requires you to stand for long periods of time, particularly on concrete or other hard surfaces, you are likely to have inflammation. Proper shoes and rubber mats may be the best way of dealing with the pain and inflammation. Talk to your doctor about anti-inflammatory medications. For the shoes, go to a professional to find out what is best for your feet.
If you see inflammation in any body part, it is a cause for concern. As you can see, it may mean something serious. When you see the doctor, make sure to give a complete medical history and a list of all medications and supplements you are using. This will help you avoid some of the side effects and herb/drug interactions that may occur.
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