Foot swelling also known as peripheral edema, can be a sign of underlying health issues. While occasional mild foot swelling and foot pain can be normally caused by factors like prolonged standing, heat, or dietary sodium intake, persistent or severe foot swelling should not be ignored, as it can be indicative of medical conditions other systemic issues.

Your feet ‘health reveals signs and symptoms of some diseases and health conditions. Additionally, nutritional deficiencies cause conditions like beriberi, caused by a thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, resulting in symptoms like muscle weakness and numbness in the feet. While your feet alone may not provide a definitive diagnosis, they can offer important clues that prompt further investigation by healthcare professionals.If you experience persistent foot swelling, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, changes in urination, or signs of infection, seek medical attention. Our Houston podiatrist at DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center will diagnose the underlying cause of the edema, recommend appropriate treatment, and refer you to a specialist.

Heart-related issues

Heart failure can lead to fluid buildup in the lower extremities, causing swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs. The heart's reduced pumping capacity results in the pooling of blood and fluids in the lower limbs.

Kidney problems

Kidney diseases or conditions that affect kidney function, such as kidney failure, can lead to fluid retention and swelling in the feet and ankles.

Venous insufficiency

Weak or damaged veins can struggle to return blood to the heart, leading to blood pooling in the legs and feet, and causing edema.

Liver disease

Liver cirrhosis can lead to a decrease in the production of albumin, a protein that helps maintain blood volume. This can result in fluid accumulation in the legs and feet.

Medications

Some medications, including certain blood pressure medications, steroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause peripheral edema as a side effect.

Lymphedema

This is a condition characterized by the accumulation of lymph fluid, leading to swelling, often in the lower extremities. It can be caused by surgery, injury, or infections that affect the lymphatic system.

Pregnancy

Swelling of the feet and ankles is common during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and pressure on blood vessels.

Infections or injuries

Infections, injuries, or conditions like cellulitis can lead to localized swelling in the feet.

Venous thrombosis

Blood clots in the deep veins of the legs, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can cause swelling and pain in one leg. DVT is a serious medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

Obesity

Excess body weight can put added stress on the veins and increase the risk of edema.

Inflammatory conditions

Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can lead to inflammation in the joints and tissues, potentially causing swelling in the feet.

Dietary factors

Excessive salt intake can lead to water retention and swelling in the feet, especially in individuals who are sensitive to sodium.