Ankle swollen even though I haven't sprained it

 

 

My legs were very sore after work yesterday.

It seems like the sock marks are too deeply imprinted.

My hind legs are also heavy and a bit uncomfortable. It feels like this...

 

Today I looked it up... if your legs swell, there are various causes.

Hospital?? I see too many things.

 

There must be something among these that applies to me...

 

Then, which department should I go to first at the hospital?

 

I'm just tired and swollen~

I think this feeling is in the past.

You need to have a detailed examination at the hospital, right?

 

Do you have a similar case to mine?

 

 

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[Source: Comedy.com]

 

Chronic venous insufficiency

The primary symptom of chronic venous insufficiency is 'varicose veins.' This occurs when the valves within the veins weaken, causing blood to flow improperly and pool in the veins, leading to swelling of the ankles. Aging, obesity, and pregnancy are common causes, and it occurs 4 to 8 times more frequently in women than in men. It is especially common among professionals who stand for long periods, such as nurses or teachers.

 

Medication

Many medications can cause swelling. In particular, swelling on the tops of the feet and ankles is common in such cases. Examples include antidepressants, calcium channel blockers, hormones (estrogen, testosterone), and corticosteroids. If drug-induced swelling is suspected, it is advisable to consult a doctor and consider changing the medication.

Heart failure

Heart failure refers to a condition where the heart's function or structural abnormalities prevent it from meeting the body's blood demand. In this case, the heart becomes weakened and cannot pump blood effectively, leading to blood pooling in the lower extremities and causing swelling. Swelling commonly appears in both legs, and in the evening, shoes may no longer fit or swelling may develop, with pressing on the swollen area causing it to indent.

 

Liver cirrhosis

Ankle swelling is closely related to liver disease. The gradual hardening of the liver due to prolonged liver cell damage is a characteristic symptom of cirrhosis. Especially in cases where the liver is severely damaged, liver function decline disrupts blood flow, leading to swelling in the lower body and abdomen. While swelling can appear throughout the body, it is more common to start in the tops of the feet and calves.

 

Kidney disease

The kidneys are organs in our body that serve as filters. They excrete waste products dissolved in the blood through urine. If kidney function fails, proteins may also be lost. Additionally, when the kidneys do not function properly, excess fluid can accumulate in the body, causing swelling in the feet and legs. Chronic kidney disease is usually discovered during other health check-ups.

 

Standing or sitting for long periods

When standing or sitting for long periods, blood can pool in the lower body due to gravity, leading to swelling.

 

Lymphedema

When the lymphatic system is damaged or blocked, fluid accumulates, leading to swelling. Usually, the limbs gradually swell without pain. If the swelling begins at the distal parts of the limbs, including the area around the ankle (malleolus), and progresses gradually, it can become severe enough to eliminate the external curvature of the ankle. Causes include infection, injury, cancer, lymph node removal, and radiation therapy.

 

Deep vein thrombosis

A condition where a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the leg, which can occur due to causes such as vascular injury, reduced blood flow, use of contraceptives, smoking, or cancer. If the blood clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism, so caution is necessary.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, fluid retention in the body increases, which can cause swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs. However, if the face, hands, and feet suddenly swell, it may be a sign of preeclampsia, and immediate medical examination by a doctor is necessary.

 

Foot injury

Swelling can occur when you sprain or injure your ankle. In this case, using an ice pack or wearing an ankle brace can be helpful. If the pain persists or a fracture is suspected, you should seek medical attention immediately.

 

Methods to identify ankle swelling = Sometimes it is difficult to notice that the ankle is swollen. This is because the ankle can hold several liters of fluid between the tissues. Generally, noticeable swelling can be observed when 2 to 3 liters of fluid accumulate in the tissues. In cases where a blood clot causes the swelling, such as in acute conditions, the swelling can be quickly detected. However, if a chronic condition is the cause, the swelling progresses slowly.

 

Swelling can occur in one ankle or both ankles. The skin around the ankle may feel tight or strangely smooth for some reason. Pitting edema, where pressing on the swollen area with a finger leaves a small indentation, may appear.