Swollen feet can be uncomfortable. The medical term is known as oedema, and it can happen for a variety of reasons. Pregnancy is a reason the feet can swell, and may become worse as the pregnancy progresses. This is a result of the excess fluid the body needs to support the growing fetus, and will gradually dissipate when the baby is born. Swollen feet may develop in patients who eat salty foods, and may be balanced in people who drink plenty of fresh water daily. Additionally, this condition may be caused by taking specific medications that can include blood pressure pills or antidepressants. Oedema can occur as an allergic reaction from an insect bite, or it may happen from an ankle sprain or fracture. These may be existing medical conditions that can lead to having swollen feet, consisting of a kidney disorder, or a heart condition. There are some patients who have found mild relief when they frequently elevate their feet, in addition to practicing gentle exercises and stretches. If you have swollen feet, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief methods.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.