Why Are My Feet and Ankles Swollen? 20 Common Causes You Should Know

Swollen feet and ankles can feel heavy, uncomfortable and frustrating - both physically and mentally. Maybe your shoes feel tighter than usual, or your ankles look puffy by the end of the day. So what’s going on?

Swelling in the feet is not always obvious, but in this picture you can see that there is not much definition in the top of the foot,

There are a number of reasons this might be happening—some harmless, others that need medical attention. Here are 20 of the most common causes of swelling in the feet and ankles, broken down into different categories. You may want to also keep an eye on this article as more articles will be written around this topic.

Circulatory and Heart-Related Causes of Swelling in the Feet & Ankles

1. Heart Failure – If the heart isn’t pumping blood effectively, fluid can build up in the legs and feet, often on both sides.

2. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – A blood clot in the leg can cause sudden swelling, usually just on one side, and needs urgent medical attention.

3. Chronic Venous Insufficiency – When the veins in your legs struggle to send blood back to your heart, it can pool and cause swelling.

4. Varicose Veins – These enlarged veins can leak fluid into surrounding tissues, leading to puffiness.

5. Lymphedema – Blocked or damaged lymphatic vessels cause long-term swelling, often in one or both legs.

Inflammation and Infection Cause Localised Swelling to the Feet & Ankles

6. Cellulitis – A bacterial skin infection that causes redness, warmth, pain, and swelling—usually on one leg.

7. Arthritis – Inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can cause localised swelling in the feet and ankles.

8. Gout – A form of arthritis where uric acid crystals build up in joints, often causing sudden swelling in the big toe or ankle.

Injuries and Trauma to the Lower Limbs Can Cause Generalised Swelling

9. Sprains and Strains – Twisting your ankle or overusing muscles can result in swelling around the injury.

10. Fractures – Broken bones cause inflammation and swelling, typically with pain and bruising.

11. Post-surgery Swelling – Common after foot or leg procedures as part of the normal healing process.

Underlying Medical Conditions which Cause Swelling in the Lower Limbs

12. Kidney Disease – When your kidneys don’t filter fluid properly, it can build up in the lower limbs.

13. Liver Disease – Conditions like cirrhosis can lower protein levels in the blood, causing swelling in the feet and legs.

14. Hypothyroidism – An underactive thyroid can lead to generalised puffiness, including in the lower limbs.

Medications That Can Cause Swelling in the Feet or Ankles

15. Calcium Channel Blockers (e.g. Amlodipine) – Commonly prescribed for high blood pressure, but can cause swelling as a side effect.

16. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) – Medications like ibuprofen may cause fluid retention.

17. Steroids – Long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to puffiness and swelling.

18. Diabetes Medications (e.g. Pioglitazone) – Certain drugs for type 2 diabetes can cause oedema in the feet and legs.

Lifestyle and Physiological Causes of Swollen Feet or Ankles

19. Prolonged Standing or Sitting – Gravity pulls fluid down into your legs, especially if you’ve been on your feet all day or on a long flight.

20. Pregnancy – Hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus can lead to swelling, especially in the third trimester.

When to See a Doctor for Swollen Feet or Ankles

If swelling comes on suddenly, is painful, or affects only one foot or ankle, it’s best to get it checked out. Likewise, if you’re noticing other symptoms like breathlessness, excessive fatigue, or redness and warmth around the swelling, you should speak to a healthcare professional.

What Shoes Should You Get for Swollen Feet?

One of the simplest ways to reduce discomfort is to wear shoes that are designed to accommodate swelling. Look for features like:

• Wide fitting or adjustable uppers

• Soft, stretchy materials

• Cushioned soles for shock absorption

• Easy fastenings like Velcro or zips

One of my favourite shoe companies for swollen feet is Cosyfeet.

Click above to explore cosy shoes!