Sore, swollen ankles: what to know

A sprain, tight footwear or a long period of standing can make one ankle tender and puffy. Swelling in both ankles may be related to venous pooling, reduced movement, body weight, or fluid balance involving the heart or kidneys. Varicose veins can cause aching, heaviness and swelling that is worse later in the day. Redness, warmth and increasing pain can point to inflammation or infection. The pattern, speed of onset and other symptoms help a clinician decide whether you need examination or testing.

If there was a minor injury, rest the ankle, raise it when sitting and use a wrapped cold pack for short periods. Choose roomy shoes and avoid standing still for long stretches; gentle walking may help if it does not worsen pain. Do not tightly massage a hot, red or very painful area. Keep a record of whether swelling affects one or both ankles, whether it changes overnight, and which medicines you take. A pharmacist can advise on suitable pain relief.

Get emergency help for ankle swelling with chest pain, breathlessness, coughing blood, fainting or sudden weakness. Seek prompt assessment for sudden swelling of one leg, marked warmth or redness, severe pain, inability to bear weight, fever, or swelling after a significant injury. Book a medical review when swelling persists, repeatedly returns, or occurs with reduced urine, unusual tiredness or breathlessness. Read more about [Swollen Ankles](/symptoms/swollen-ankles/) and [Varicose Veins](/conditions/varicose-veins/).

Ask whether the swelling pattern suggests a joint, vein, heart or kidney cause; whether your medicines could contribute; and whether you need blood tests or imaging. Mention recent travel, injury, new medication, pregnancy, breathlessness, chest symptoms and whether pressing the skin leaves a temporary dent.