Heart Disease
Swollen feet can be an indicator of heart disease or heart failure. When the heart is compromised, it struggles to pump blood efficiently throughout the body. In cases of right-sided heart failure, the body may retain excess salt and water, leading to swelling in the feet and ankles.
Along with swollen feet, symptoms of heart failure may include shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, weakness, fatigue, coughing, abdominal swelling, rapid weight gain, loss of appetite, nausea, and confusion. [5]
Blood Clots
Blood clots in the leg veins can obstruct blood flow, leading to swollen feet and ankles. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when blood clots form deep within the leg veins, potentially causing a blockage in major vessels. If these clots dislodge, they can travel to the heart or lungs, posing a life-threatening risk.
Symptoms of DVT include swelling in one leg, pain or discomfort, low-grade fever, and color changes in the affected leg. Prompt medical attention is crucial if these signs are present, as treatment with blood-thinning medication may be necessary to dissolve the clots.
