Swollen ankles, feet and legs (oedema)

Swelling in the ankles, feet or legs often goes away on its own. See a GP if it does not get better in a few days.

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

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

Symptoms of oedema

Symptoms of oedema include:

How to ease swelling yourself

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

 See a GP if: 

1 or both of your ankles, foot or legs are swollen and:

• it has not improved after treating it at home for a few days
• it gets worse

 Call 112 if: 

• you feel short of breath or are struggling to breathe
• your chest feels tight, heavy or painful
• you're coughing up blood

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 112 will give you advice about what to do.

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 making, lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or going on a low-salt diet.