Swollen feet: please consult

---

Extract from the article: The bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments of each foot work with the ankles to support weight and enable walking, running, jumping and standing. But all these actions sometimes cause wear and tear. Circulation to and from the feet slows down, and blo

---

The bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments of each foot work with the ankles to support weight and enable walking, running, jumping and standing. But all these actions sometimes cause wear and tear. Circulation to and from the feet slows down, and blood begins to pool in the many blood vessels distributed along the toes, heels and ankles. There are many reasons for this symptom.

When blood and fluids don't circulate well in the body, the feet are the first to show symptoms. In some cases, it's simply a matter of lack of exercise, pregnancy or ill-fitting medication. But in other cases, swollen feet can hide serious problems. In all cases, consider these symptoms and talk to your doctor, especially if the swelling lasts several days, develops suddenly, affects only one foot, is accompanied by pain, and the skin is discolored.

A sedentary lifestyle

When you don't move around enough, your feet suffer.Sitting for too long can reduce blood circulation in this area of the body, leading to swelling. Conversely, standing for too long can limit the muscular capacity of the legs and feet, which also slows blood circulation. Try to take regular breaks to change position during the day and take a few steps.

Pregnancy

The body produces more fluid than usual during pregnancy.In the third trimester of pregnancy, the weight of the uterus can add extra pressure and lead to water retention in the legs and feet.If this part of the body tends to swell, it should return to its normal appearance after delivery. But if the swelling is very bothersome, massage can provide relief. However, any swelling during pregnancy should be reported during prenatal consultations, so that other more serious causes can be investigated and ruled out.

A blood clot

One foot is swollen, but not the other? You may be suffering from a blood clot. In this case, the swelling may be accompanied by other symptoms such as heat and redness of the affected foot. When a clot forms in the veins, it can dislodge and lodge in the lungs or heart. Seek prompt medical attention.

Medications

Certain medications can cause swelling of the feet or ankles. A healthcare professional can help you find more suitable alternatives.

Organ problems

If certain essential organs have trouble functioning properly, blood and fluids can accumulate in veins and tissues. In the most serious cases, this can be heart failure, kidney disease or liver disease. In these cases, other parts of the body such as the hands and face may also swell. A thorough medical examination will enable a precise diagnosis to be made.

William O.

Article validated by Dr Jean-Claude Bakpatina, General Practitioner at the Floreal Clinic in Lomé.