Swollen ankles are one of the most common symptoms we see, particularly in older adults. In most cases the swelling is harmless and settles with simple changes at home. Sometimes, though, swollen feet and ankles can be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs medical attention. This guide explains what causes swollen ankles, how to reduce the swelling, and when it’s time to speak to a doctor.
What are swollen ankles?
Swollen ankles happen when fluid builds up in the tissues of the lower legs. The medical term for this is oedema, and when it affects the feet, ankles and legs it’s known as peripheral oedema or ankle oedema.
Because of gravity, fluid naturally collects in the lowest parts of the body. That’s why swelling is often worse at the end of the day, after long periods of sitting or standing, and in hot weather.
One simple check is for pitting oedema. Gently press your thumb into the swollen area for a few seconds. If it leaves a dent that slowly fills back in, the swelling is caused by excess fluid. This is worth mentioning to your GP, as it helps them understand what may be going on.
What causes swollen ankles?
If you’ve been wondering “why are my ankles swollen?”, the answer is often something everyday and temporary. Common causes include:
- Sitting or standing for long periods, such as on a long journey or swollen ankles after flying
- Hot weather, which causes blood vessels to widen and fluid to leak into surrounding tissue
- Being overweight, which puts extra pressure on the veins in the legs
- Pregnancy, due to hormonal changes and pressure on the blood vessels
- A minor injury, such as a sprain
Medication is another frequent cause. Some blood pressure tablets, particularly calcium channel blockers like amlodipine, are well known for causing swollen ankles. Steroids, some diabetes medicines, anti-inflammatory painkillers and hormone treatments can have the same effect. If you think your medication may be the cause, speak to your GP or pharmacist. Never stop taking a prescribed medicine without advice first.
Less commonly, swollen ankles can point to a condition affecting the heart, kidneys, liver or veins. These include heart failure, kidney disease, liver disease, venous insufficiency and lymphoedema. Swelling in one leg only can be a sign of a blood clot (DVT) or an infection such as cellulitis.
Swollen ankles in the elderly
Swollen ankles in elderly people are especially common, and there are a few reasons for this. Circulation often becomes less efficient with age, and the valves in the leg veins can weaken. Older adults are also more likely to spend long periods sitting, to take several medications, and to live with long-term conditions such as heart failure or kidney disease. The British Heart Foundation has a helpful explainer on how heart failure causes swollen ankles and feet.
If you care for an older relative, it’s worth keeping an eye on any changes in their legs and feet. Swelling that appears suddenly, gets worse, or comes with breathlessness should always be checked. Our home care team can help with daily routines that support healthy circulation, such as gentle movement, raising the legs and help with compression stockings.
How to reduce swollen ankles
For most people, swelling improves with a few simple steps at home:
- Raise your legs on a pillow or footstool when resting, ideally above the level of your heart
- Keep moving with gentle walks and simple ankle exercises, like circling your feet or pointing and flexing your toes
- Avoid sitting or standing still for long periods; get up and move around every hour if you can
- Wear comfortable, supportive shoes that aren’t too tight
- Drink plenty of water, as staying hydrated helps your body manage fluid balance
- Cut back on salt, which can make the body hold on to water
- Try compression socks or stockings, but check with your GP or pharmacist first, as they aren’t suitable for everyone
When to see a GP about swollen ankles
See a GP if:
- the swelling hasn’t improved after a few days of home treatment
- the swelling is getting worse
- you have a condition such as heart, kidney or liver disease and your ankles have become swollen
Get urgent help from NHS 111 (or NHS 111 Wales if you live in Wales) if:
- only one ankle or leg is swollen and there’s no obvious injury
- the swollen area is painful, red or feels hot
- you have a high temperature or feel unwell
Call 999 if you have swollen ankles along with shortness of breath, chest pain or you’re coughing up blood. These can be signs of a serious problem, such as a blood clot that has travelled to the lungs or heart failure.
Getting the right support
Most swollen ankles are nothing to worry about, but they’re always worth paying attention to, particularly in later life. For more medical guidance, see the NHS advice on swollen ankles, feet and legs. If you or a loved one needs help at home to manage a health condition, get in touch with Lapis Care to find out how our carers can help.
FAQs
Are swollen ankles serious?
Usually not. Most swollen ankles are caused by everyday things like hot weather, sitting for too long or a medication side effect, and they improve with rest and raising the legs. However, swelling that doesn’t go away, gets worse or comes with other symptoms such as breathlessness should be checked by a doctor.
Why do my ankles swell in the evening?
During the day, gravity pulls fluid down into your feet and ankles, especially if you’ve been sitting or standing for long periods. By the evening, this fluid has had time to build up. Raising your legs and moving regularly during the day can help.
Why does only one of my ankles swell?
Swelling in one ankle is often caused by an injury such as a sprain. If there’s no obvious injury, particularly if the leg is also painful, red or warm, contact NHS 111 straight away, as it could be a sign of a blood clot (DVT) or an infection.
Can dehydration cause swollen ankles?
Yes, it can. When you don’t drink enough, your body may hold on to water, which can add to swelling. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps your body keep a healthy fluid balance.
Can amlodipine cause swollen ankles?
Yes. Swollen ankles are a well-known side effect of amlodipine and other blood pressure medicines in the same group. If you notice swelling after starting a new medication, speak to your GP or pharmacist, but don’t stop taking it without their advice.
Does walking help swollen ankles?
Gentle walking is one of the best ways to reduce swelling. Moving your legs helps the calf muscles pump fluid back up towards the heart. If walking is difficult, seated ankle exercises can have a similar effect.
Do compression socks help swollen ankles?
Compression socks can help by gently squeezing the legs and stopping fluid from collecting. They aren’t suitable for everyone, particularly people with certain circulation problems, so check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
Why are swollen ankles more common in older people?
As we age, circulation can slow down and the valves in the leg veins can weaken. Older adults are also more likely to move less, take several medications and live with conditions like heart failure, all of which can lead to swollen ankles.
When should I see a doctor about swollen ankles?
See your GP if the swelling hasn’t improved after a few days, is getting worse, or if you have a heart, kidney or liver condition. Call 999 if swollen ankles come with chest pain, shortness of breath or coughing up blood.