What causes swelling on the top of the foot, and what should be done about it?

Sep 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
In general, swelling on the top of the foot may be caused by prolonged standing or walking, temperature changes, varicose veins, cellulitis, nephritis, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. In daily life, one should control salt intake, limit fluid consumption, maintain appropriate physical activity, and regularly monitor changes in the condition.

Under normal circumstances, foot swelling may be caused by prolonged standing or walking, temperature changes, varicose veins, cellulitis, nephritis, or other reasons. Treatment may include general measures and medication under the guidance of a doctor. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Prolonged Standing or Walking

Prolonged standing or walking may impair blood circulation in the lower limbs, leading to swelling and edema on the top of the foot. Regular rest and elevating the feet can help promote blood return.

2. Temperature Changes

In hot weather, the body naturally dilates blood vessels to dissipate heat, which may lead to foot pain and swelling. It is important to maintain a cool environment, wear breathable shoes and socks, and avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

3. Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are mainly caused by genetic factors, poor posture, or heavy physical labor. The condition damages venous valve function, obstructs blood return, increases venous pressure, and consequently causes the aforementioned symptoms, possibly accompanied by pain and fatigue. Medications such as diosmin tablets, warfarin sodium tablets, and sodium aescinate tablets may be used under medical supervision.

4. Cellulitis

Cellulitis is usually triggered by bacterial infection. The inflammatory response may increase vascular permeability, allowing fluid and white blood cells to leak into tissue spaces, causing foot swelling, often accompanied by pain, fever, redness, and swelling. Treatment may include medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefaclor sustained-release tablets, and ichthammol ointment, as recommended by a physician.

5. Nephritis

Poor dietary habits such as picky eating or binge eating may lead to nutritional deficiencies and trigger nephritis. Nephritis may impair the kidney's filtration and excretion functions, preventing normal elimination of water and salt from the body, resulting in fluid accumulation in tissues and subsequent foot swelling. Symptoms may include abnormal urine and fatigue. Medications such as benazepril hydrochloride tablets, irbesartan tablets, and furosemide tablets may be used according to medical advice.

In daily life, it is advisable to control salt intake, limit fluid consumption, maintain moderate physical activity, and regularly monitor disease progression.