Swollen Ankles can refer to the swelling of the soft tissues around the ankle joint. It is a common condition that can occur for a variety of reasons, ranging from simple sprains to more serious health concerns.

Below are 9 common causes of swollen ankles.

1. Injury

The most common cause of swollen ankles is an injury, such as a sprain or strain. Ankles are prone to injury due to their location and the amount of weight they support on a daily basis.

When an injury occurs, the injured ankle may become inflamed and the surrounding soft tissue may swell.

2. Infection

Infection can also cause swelling around the ankle. This can be due to a bacterial or viral infection in the tissue around the joint. In rare cases, infection can also be caused by parasites or fungi that are found in the soil or water.

If you suspect that your swollen ankle is due to an infection, you should seek medical attention immediately.

3. Arthritis

Arthritis is a common cause of swollen ankles, especially among older adults. This condition happens when the cartilage between bones wears away, causing the bones to rub against each other. This can cause pain and swelling around the joint.

4. Venous Insufficiency

Venous insufficiency is a condition where the veins in the legs are not functioning properly, causing blood to pool in the lower leg. This can cause swelling in the ankle and foot, along with other symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and varicose veins.

5. Heart Disease

Heart disease can cause swelling around the ankle as a result of fluid buildup in the tissues. This happens when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, causing blood to back up in the veins and capillaries.

This can cause swelling around the ankles, especially in the evening or after sitting or standing for long periods of time.

6. Kidney Disease

Kidney disease can cause swelling around the ankles, as well as other parts of the body, due to fluid buildup in the tissues. This happens when the kidneys are not functioning properly, causing excess fluids to build up in the body.

This can cause swelling and even edema in some severe cases.

7. Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a common cause of swollen ankles, especially in the third trimester. This is due to the increased pressure on the veins in the lower body, as well as the increased fluid retention that happens during pregnancy.

8. Medications

Some medications can cause swelling around the ankles as a side effect. This includes medications such as blood pressure medication, hormone replacement therapy, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

9. Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a condition where fluid buildup occurs in the lymphatic system, causing swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs. This can happen as a result of surgery, radiation therapy, infection, or injury to the lymphatic system.

Conclusion

Swollen ankles can be caused by a variety of reasons, ranging from simple injuries to more serious health concerns.

If you are experiencing swelling in your ankles, it is important to consult with your doctor to determine the underlying cause of the swelling and receive appropriate treatment.