10 Reasons for Swollen Feet
Elderly woman swollen feet putting on shoes
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I you have been experiencing swollen feet, one of these 10 reasons could be why.
You’ve been on or off your feet all day.
Elderly woman swollen feet putting on shoes
Credit: Shutterstock
Maybe your job keeps you on your toes, you had a busy day running errands, or perhaps you took a long tour through a new city. Whatever the case may be, it can leave you with sore and puffy feet. Conversely, being off your feet can create a similar effect. If you spent the day sitting due to an injury or a new job, you may suffer from dependent edema, which is caused by gravity. Luckily, this condition can be treated by simply propping up your feet on a pillow at the end of the day. Compression socks are another good option and recommended by Dr. Tonnessen. “They go from the foot to the knee and are a little snugger on the foot and ankle to prevent the accumulation of fluid,” she says. [4]
Too much salt
glass salt shaker on gray table and white background for text
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French fries, pickles, chips, and pretzels are delicious, but consuming too much sodium can cause water retention, which results in swelling and puffiness. “I advise my patients to really look at labels of all their food,” says Dr. Tonnessen, “to see how much sodium is in their diet soda, canned soups, microwave dinners, and to consume no more than 2,000 to 2,400 milligrams per day.” [5] Making sure you get adequate potassium in your diet is also an important factor to consider.
Injuries
Foot swelling during pregnancy.,Swollen feet
Swelling can also be a result of inflammation from a fracture or tendonitis. These conditions have a clear sign that separates them from other causes: they hurt. While the foot heals, it’s recommended for you to rest the injury, apply ice packs and compression bandages. [3]
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