Foot swelling can happen due to:
1. Long Standing or Sitting
Poor circulation can cause fluid to collect in the feet/ankles.
2. High Salt Intake
Excess salt makes your body retain water.
3. Medications
Some medicines may cause swelling (e.g., for blood pressure, pain, or hormones).
4. Kidney, Heart, or Liver Issues
These organs help regulate fluid balance. If not functioning well, swelling may appear.
5. Varicose Veins & Poor Venous Return
Weak vein valves cause blood pooling.
6. Foot/Ankle Injury
Sprains or soft-tissue injuries cause local swelling.
7. Infections or Skin Conditions
Especially if the area is red, hot, or painful.
General Safe Home Measures
These are mild, safe practices that often help relieve simple swelling:
1. Elevation
Raise your feet above heart level for 20–30 minutes, 2–3 times per day.
2. Reduce Salt Intake
Too much salt can worsen swelling. Eat less packaged/snack foods.
3. Gentle Movement
If you sit or stand for long hours:
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Walk for 5 minutes every hour
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Rotate ankles, flex toes, small exercises
4. Hydration
Drink enough water. Dehydration can paradoxically worsen swelling.
5. Compression Stockings
Only if advised by a doctor, especially if you have heart or circulation problems.
6. Check Your Shoes
Tight shoes can block circulation.
7. Cold Compress
For injury-related swelling use a cold pack for 10–15 minutes.
🌿 Alternative / Traditional Medicine Options
These can help mild cases but should not replace medical evaluation if swelling is persistent:
Ayurveda / Siddha
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Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) – commonly used for water retention
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Gokshura – supports urinary system
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Dashamoola decoctions – sometimes used for inflammation
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Mild herbal diuretics (only under practitioner supervision)
Acupuncture
May help circulation and reduce fluid buildup in some people.
Herbal Foot Soaks
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Warm water + Epsom salt
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Turmeric water soak (for mild inflammation)
❗ When You MUST See a Doctor
Seek medical care if you have:
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Swelling in both feet for more than 1–2 weeks
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Shortness of breath or chest discomfort
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Swelling with redness, heat, or pain (possible infection)
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Sudden swelling in one leg (risk of vein blockage)
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Swelling with kidney, heart, or liver symptoms
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You are on medication that may cause water retention
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