Swelling can occur for many reasons. It normally presents as an increase in the size of the affected body part or a change in the shape. You might notice heat and pain around the same area but not always. Swelling can be due to a number of different reasons. Often it is not worrying or concerning and can be treated relatively easily. If you have swollen feet, sometimes it can be an indication of something more serious happening and should be brought to the attention of your doctor or specialist as early as possible.
Here are five reasons your feet may swell that you cannot ignore.
1. Osteoarthritis
This is a painful joint disease caused by wear and tear. You are at risk of developing this painful condition as you get older.
It’s the most common form of arthritis and can affect the many bones and joints in your feet causing swelling, stiffness and tenderness.
Osteoarthritis can be treated in many ways including steroid medication, pain relievers, custom shoes and physical therapy.
2. Heart failure
One sign of heart failure is swollen feet due to a buildup of excess fluid in the body.
According to the American Heart Association, swollen feet alone may be nothing to worry about but if it coincides with another warning sign such as shortness of breath, fatigue, lack of appetite, then you should consult a doctor.
You must ask your healthcare professional for an evaluation of your heart is you suspect any issues.
3. Gout
Gout is among the most painful forms of arthritis and occurs when too much uric acid accumulates in the body, as per the National Institute of Arthritis.
The symptoms of Gout are usually worse at night. Often, the inner joints of the big toe become tender, red, and swollen.
If you have severe pain or if it’s the first time you’ve experienced this, seek medical advice immediately.
4. Foot Bursitis
Bursitis is the swelling of a bursa; a fluid-filled sac which cushions your bones, tendons, and muscles. It’s common in shoulders, hips, and elbows, but can also affect knees, heels, and feet.
In the foot, there is only one bursa between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone. This condition can cause major pain in the foot.
Even though very painful most cases can be treated at home by resting the affected area and placing an ice pack on the swelling. Painkillers will also help speed up the recovery.
5. Rheumatoid arthritis
You can experience Rheumatoid arthritis in your feet and the symptoms and how long they last can vary.
Though the disease varies greatly from person to person, often the joints become swollen, sore or severely inflamed.
“In about 20 percent of RA cases, foot and ankle symptoms are even among the first signs of the disease,” according to Creaky Joints.
In case you suspect you have RA consult a healthcare professional; there are many ways to alleviate the pain of this condition including physical therapy, losing weight, exercise and pain medication.
