Swollen Feet

Swollen Feet: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

What are Swollen Feet?

Swollen Feet is a condition where the muscles in the feet have an excessive build-up of fluid. Gravity pulls the fluids to your feet and ankles, causing them to swell.

What causes Swollen Feet?

Swelling can be caused by a serious condition of the kidney, heart, liver or blood vessels. Some other causes of swelling are:

• Eating a poor diet high in salt and carbohydrates.
• Taking birth control or hormone replacement therapy pills.
• Pregnancy.
• PMS.
• Sodium retention. 
• Muscle injury. 
• Varicose veins.
• History of phlebitis. 
• Allergic reactions.
• Neuromuscular disorders.

Treatment and prevention of Swollen Feet

Treatment of Swollen Feet/Swollen foot will depend on the cause of the swelling. 

• Cut back on salt.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Put your feet up Lying on your back, rest your feet at least 12 inches above the level of your heart for 10 to 15 minutes, three or four times a day. 
• Use support stockings.
• Exercise regularly. 
• Avoid standing in place for long period of time. 
• Avoid long periods of sitting.
• Lose excess weight.

This information is for guidance only. If you are in doubt at all, please consult your nearest health professional.