What causes ankle swelling?
Disease description:
After sitting for a long time, swelling occurs around the ankles; what causes this?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Ankle swelling, known as ankle edema, commonly occurs due to the following causes:
1. Prolonged standing or sitting: This can obstruct blood circulation, causing fluid retention in the ankle area, resulting in swelling. Improvement methods include changing posture regularly and performing leg exercises to promote blood circulation.
2. Excessive dietary salt intake: Consuming too much salt can cause fluid retention in the body, leading to ankle swelling. Reducing salt intake and increasing potassium intake, such as eating potassium-rich foods like bananas and potatoes, may help alleviate the swelling.
3. Venous diseases: Conditions such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis impair venous return in the lower limbs, causing fluid accumulation in the ankle area.
4. Trauma or inflammation: Local injuries or inflammation such as ankle sprains and arthritis can also cause localized edema.
5. Kidney disease: When kidney function is impaired, imbalances in the regulation of body fluids and salt levels can lead to edema.
6. Liver disease: Conditions such as cirrhosis can cause hypoalbuminemia, allowing fluid from the bloodstream to leak into surrounding tissues, causing edema.
7. Medication side effects: Certain medications, such as antihypertensive drugs and hormonal therapies, may cause edema as a side effect.
