What causes ankle swelling?

Ankle swelling can be caused by various factors. Common causes include: 1. Sprains or strains: This is the most common cause, often accompanied by pain and bruising; rest and cold compresses usually help alleviate the symptoms. 2. Varicose veins: Impaired blood return in the leg veins can lead to fluid accumulation and swelling in the ankles. Wearing compression stockings may be beneficial. 3. Heart disease: Inadequate pumping function of the heart may result in fluid accumulation in the lower parts of the body, including the ankles. 4. Kidney problems: Conditions such as nephritis or kidney failure can prevent the body from effectively removing excess fluid, leading to generalized edema. In addition, arthritis, medication side effects, and prolonged standing or sitting can also cause ankle swelling. If the swelling persists, is accompanied by severe pain, redness, warmth, skin discoloration, or other symptoms, immediate medical attention should be sought.