Oedema

Common causes of swollen ankles, feet and legs

Swelling in the ankles, feet and legs is often caused by a build-up of fluid in these areas, called oedema.

Oedema is usually caused by:

standing or sitting in the same position for too long
eating too much salty food
being overweight
being pregnant
taking certain medicines - such as some blood pressure medicines, contraceptive pills, hormone therapy, antidepressants or steroids
varicose veins
thyroid problems

Oedema can also be caused by:

an injury - such as a strain or sprain
an insect bite or sting
problems with your kidneys, liver or heart
a blood clot
an infection

Find out more about swollen ankles, feet and fingers in pregnancy

Symptoms of oedema

Symptoms of oedema in the ankles, feet and legs can affect 1 or both legs and may include:

See a GP if:

Both of your ankles, feet or legs are swollen and:

it has not improved after treating it at home for a few days
it gets worse
you have been diagnosed with a condition that affects your heart, kidneys or leg veins

Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:

you have swelling in 1 ankle, foot or leg and you don't know what's causing it
you have a lot of swelling following an injury or the swelling is getting worse
the swelling is severe, painful or starts very suddenly
you also have swelling in other areas of your body such as your face or tummy
the swollen area is red or feels hot to the touch
your temperature is very high, or you feel hot, cold or shivery
you have diabetes and your feet, ankles or legs are swollen

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.

Call 999 if:

you feel short of breath or are struggling to breathe
your chest feels tight, heavy or painful
you're coughing up blood
your heartbeat is more noticeable (palpitations)
you're feeling lightheaded, faint, confused, sick or clammy

You could have a blood clot in your lungs, which needs immediate treatment in hospital.

Do not drive yourself to A&E.

The person you speak to at 999 will give you advice about what to do.

Things that may ease swelling

Swelling in your ankles, feet or legs should go away on its own, but there are some things you can try to help.

Do

raise your legs or the swollen area on a chair or pillows when you can
get some gentle exercise, like walking, to improve your blood flow
wear wide, comfortable shoes with a low heel and soft sole
wash, dry and moisturise your feet to avoid infections

Don't

do not stand or sit for long periods of time
do not wear clothes, socks or shoes that are too tight

Treatment for swelling and oedema

Treatment for swelling or oedema that does not go away on its own will depend on the cause. Your GP can help you with the right treatment.

Speak to your GP about whether making lifestyle changes could help.

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