Swollen feet: A common condition that could signal bigger health issues
Persistent swelling in the lower legs, ankles, and feet can be a sign of something far more serious.
For many, swollen feet are a mild inconvenience, something that happens after a long day on their feet or after sitting too long at a desk.
But for others, persistent swelling in the lower legs, ankles, and feet can be a sign of something far more serious.
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From pregnant women and office workers to the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, swelling in the lower extremities affects a wide range of people.
While occasional puffiness is harmless, experts warn that ignoring persistent or severe swelling could put your health at risk.
Swelling, or oedema, occurs when excess fluid builds up in the body’s tissues.
Gravity naturally pulls fluid down to the lower body, making the feet and ankles prime targets. But what causes this buildup in the first place?
According to Dr Collins Otieno, a registered nurse and podiatrist consultant at The Nairobi Foot and Ankle Clinic, explains that many people assume swollen feet are just from being on their feet too long, but in some cases, it is a symptom of a deeper issue, one that requires medical attention.
"Swelling in the feet and ankles can be caused by anything from lifestyle habits to serious medical conditions like heart disease, kidney failure, or even blood clots," Dr. Otieno told The Eastleigh Voice.
"It’s important to monitor it closely, especially if it’s persistent or accompanied by other symptoms like pain, redness, or difficulty breathing."
Causes
For office workers, frequent travellers, and anyone who sits or stands for extended periods, swelling is often a simple matter of poor circulation.
Dr Otieno says that long hours in one position can cause blood and fluid to pool in the lower body.
Similarly, consuming too much salt can worsen swelling by making the body retain more water. Even hot weather plays a role, as heat causes blood vessels to expand, making it harder for the body to circulate fluids properly.
“Pregnant women often experience swollen feet, particularly in the second and third trimesters, due to increased fluid retention and pressure on veins from a growing uterus,” he said.
While mild swelling is normal, sudden or extreme swelling in the feet, hands, or face could signal preeclampsia, a dangerous condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Dr Otieno advises pregnant women to elevate their feet, stay hydrated, reduce salt intake or wear compression socks.
“A simple activity like taking a walk will help reduce the swelling, by improving circulation, in the ankles and feet. Also, if you are prone to swelling, massaging your feet may help stop the fluid retention,” he said.
Dr Otieno also said that they should often sleep on their left side to relieve vein pressure.
“For breastfeeding mothers, maintaining hydration, eating potassium-rich foods like mangoes, bananas and avocados, avoiding prolonged sitting and elevating the legs while breastfeeding can help reduce the swelling.”
Comfortable shoes
Additionally, both groups were encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and seek medical attention if the swelling is severe, sudden or accompanied by pain, as it may indicate a serious health condition like preeclampsia or deep vein thrombosis.
“Swelling is also a common response to injury. Ankle sprains, broken bones, and Achilles tendon rupture all cause inflammation, leading to fluid buildup. For injuries, doctors often recommend the R.I.C.E. method, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, to help reduce swelling,” he said
“But sometimes, swelling is a warning sign of a serious medical issue. Blood clots, also known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can cause sudden swelling in one leg along with pain or redness. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.”
Otieno said that conditions like heart failure, kidney disease, and liver disease can also cause fluid retention in the lower body.
Diabetes, which affects blood circulation, can make swelling more likely and increase the risk of infections. Cellulitis, a bacterial infection under the skin, can cause rapid swelling, warmth, and redness, requiring urgent antibiotic treatment.
For mild cases, Dr Otieno said that simple lifestyle changes can help.
“Staying active and avoiding long periods of sitting or standing can improve circulation. Resting with the feet elevated above heart level helps fluid drain properly,” he said.
He also advised wearing compression socks, which can prevent excessive fluid buildup, while drinking plenty of water and reducing salt intake can also make a difference.
“For chronic swelling, doctors may recommend diuretics to help the body get rid of excess fluid, physical therapy to improve circulation, or medications to treat underlying conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis,” he said.
While occasional swelling is normal, certain symptoms indicate a need for immediate medical care.
Dr Otieno also said that if swelling is accompanied by chest pain, trouble breathing, severe pain, redness, or warmth in one leg, it could be a sign of a blood clot. Rapidly spreading infection, fever, or sudden swelling during pregnancy should also be taken seriously.
“ Another thing to note is birth control pills especially those with estrogen can also cause swelling, due to fluid retention and slowed circulation. The hormone promotes water and salt retention, which leads to puffiness in the feet and ankles and sometimes in the face. In some rare cases, the pill may increase the risk of blod clots, causing more severe swelling, females need to do thorough research before choosing a contraceptive pill.”
While swollen feet are often harmless, they can also be a sign of a deeper health issue.
Paying attention to symptoms, making small lifestyle changes, and seeking medical advice when necessary, can help prevent complications and keep your feet healthy.
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