Swollen feet can be the symptom of any of several medical diseases and conditions. One method to narrow down the cause is to observe the location and extent of the swelling. If the swelling is around the ankle of only one foot, it could be due to a strain or sprain. Other swellings on a single foot can be caused by localized infections and injuries. Degenerative conditions such as arthritis and bone spurs can also cause localized swelling on the joints of the feet. Swelling on both the feet usually indicates edema, a condition where an excess of fluid is built up, particularly at the extremities. This often happens at the feet simply due to gravity. Swollen feet of this kind are usually symptomatic of a more serious underlying medical condition, such as varicose veins, heart disease, diabetes, sodium retention, and kidney and liver disorders. In some individuals, certain legal and illegal drugs may also cause swollen feet. A visit to the doctor is recommended to help study the condition and diagnose the underlying cause. Once the reason behind the swollen feet is identified, it can be treated and the feet will return to normal.
In the meantime, the best treatment is rest; stay off your feet as long as possible to allow the inflamed area to heal itself. You can encourage the process with mild over-the-counter medication. Many patients benefit from usage of cold and hot compresses to manage the swelling.
At first, a cold compress (such as a plastic bag of ice) should be used. This provides relief from any soreness or pain and reduces the blood flow to the affected area. For best results, elevate your feet, positioning them higher than your torso and repeat the compress several times a day. Once you notice the swelling subside, switch to a hot compress (such as a towel soaked in boiling water) that will boost blood circulation and speed up the healing process. During the treatment period, drink a lot of fluids, especially water, and avoid salt, which can lead to fluid retention. Once your doctor has helped you treat the root cause of the problem, you need to adopt a healthier lifestyle to avoid a reoccurrence. Try to avoid sitting or standing in one place for long; this puts excessive pressure on the feet and causes fluids to pool due to gravity. Exercising regularly boosts the blood circulation and improves the immune system. In case obesity is a factor in causing pressure on the feet, a diet combined with exercise will definitely help.