What should you know about swollen ankles, feet and hands?

Swollen ankles, feet and hands can result from fluid retention, prolonged inactivity, heat, medicines or an underlying health condition, so the pattern and accompanying symptoms matter. Swelling that affects both sides after a long journey may behave differently from sudden swelling on one side, or swelling that comes with breathlessness or chest discomfort.

Swelling, also called oedema, happens when extra fluid collects in body tissues. It may be temporary after standing or sitting for a long time, eating salty food, or being in hot weather. Tight shoes, rings or socks can make it easier to notice. Some medicines can also contribute, so include every prescription, over-the-counter medicine and supplement when discussing it with a clinician.

Persistent or recurring swelling can occur with problems affecting circulation, the heart or the kidneys. Varicose veins can make fluid pool around the lower legs; learn more about [Varicose Veins](/conditions/varicose-veins/). Heart failure and chronic kidney disease can also cause swelling, often alongside other symptoms; see [Heart Failure](/conditions/heart-failure/) and [Chronic Kidney Disease](/conditions/chronic-kidney-disease/) for related information. Swelling alone cannot identify its cause.

Note when the swelling began, whether it affects one or both sides, and whether it changes during the day. Record recent travel, long periods of sitting or standing, new medicines, injury, skin changes and any change in urination or breathing. Remove tight rings or footwear before swelling increases. Gentle movement and raising swollen legs when resting may help when the swelling follows inactivity, but stop if movement causes pain.

Arrange a medical assessment if swelling is unexplained, keeps returning, gradually worsens, or does not settle. A clinician may examine the swollen areas, review medicines and ask about your heart, kidneys, circulation and general health. Do not start water tablets or sharply restrict fluids without advice. If weight is contributing to leg swelling, information about [Obesity](/conditions/obesity/) may help you discuss supportive options.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden swelling with shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, coughing blood or marked weakness. Get prompt assessment for a leg or arm that becomes suddenly swollen, painful, red or hot, especially when the change is on one side. These warning signs need assessment because a clot, infection or a heart or lung problem may need rapid treatment.

Contact a clinician promptly if swelling comes with fever, a spreading skin change, severe pain, new confusion, a large reduction in urination or rapidly worsening breathlessness. If you are pregnant and develop sudden swelling with headache, visual changes or upper abdominal pain, seek urgent maternity advice.

Ask: What could explain the location and timing of my swelling? Could any of my medicines be contributing? Which symptoms should make me seek urgent help? Do I need checks of my heart, kidneys or circulation? Is elevating my legs or using compression suitable for me? Bring a list of medicines and a brief record of when the swelling appears.