Swollen ankles may be a common occurrence for several reasons. It can be due to pregnancy, standing or sitting for long hours, or due to medical conditions like arthritis or heart failure.

Swelling in ankles is usually nothing to worry about and will disappear on its own. However, when it is persistent or coupled with other symptoms, it may indicate an underlying health condition.

Causes of swollen ankles

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, women experience a lot of hormonal changes, which can lead to swelling in various parts of the body, including ankles, feet, and legs. This condition termed edema, and it occurs when the body holds excessive water.

As the uterus grows and puts pressure on the veins that carry blood from the legs to the heart, it can impede blood flow, leading to swelling. Pregnant women can combat edema by lying on their side, wearing compression stockings, and keeping their feet elevated above their hearts.

Heart failure

People with heart failure often develop swollen feet, ankles, and legs due to fluid retention, which causes excessive fluid to accumulate in the body’s tissues.

This condition termed peripheral edema, and it is the result of the heart’s inability to pump blood sufficiently. The retention of fluids can cause swelling in different parts of the body, but the ankles are particularly susceptible to edema due to gravity’s effects on blood flow.

Along with swollen ankles, people with heart conditions may experience shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.

Arthritis

Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis can be responsible for ankle swelling. When swelling occurs due to arthritis, it is generally due to inflammation in the joints of the ankle.

As a result of inflammation, the ankle joint produces more synovial fluid than usual, which leads to swelling. In some cases, the swelling may occur in the hands, knees, or other joints. If the swelling is due to arthritis, the person may experience pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the affected joint.

Venous insufficiency

Venous insufficiency is a common condition that occurs when the blood flow through the veins is insufficient. This condition causes blood to pool in the veins leading to swelling and aching in the ankles.

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People with venous insufficiency may experience itching, varicose veins, and skin changes on the leg’s surface. Treatment options for venous insufficiency include wearing compression stockings, elevating the legs, and undergoing vein surgery.

Injury

Another common cause of swollen ankles is ankle injury. Any damage to the ankle joint can lead to swelling around the area. This type of swelling is typically associated with pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the affected ankle.

Common types of ankle injuries include sprains, strains, and breaks.

Medications

Some medications can cause swollen ankles as a side effect. Drugs like calcium channel blockers, corticosteroids, and NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can lead to the retention of fluids in the body, leading to edema.

If you are taking medication, and you notice swollen ankles as a side effect, it is essential to talk to your doctor.

Other health conditions

Swollen ankles may also be a symptom of certain underlying medical conditions, such as kidney disease, liver disease, blood clots, or lymphatic system diseases.

If ankle swelling is accompanied by weight gain, breathing problems, chest pain, or fever, it is essential to see a doctor immediately to determine the cause.

Conclusion

Swelling in the ankles is usually a mild and transient condition that can resolve on its own.

However, when it is accompanied by other symptoms or lasts for a prolonged period, it is essential to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and to design an appropriate treatment plan. In some cases, swollen ankles can be an indicator of an underlying health condition, and early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent complications.