Swollen ankles on holiday: what to know

Hot weather widens blood vessels and can make fluid collect around the feet. Flights, car journeys, and sightseeing may keep the legs in one position for a long time; unusually long walks can also irritate tissues. Changes in routine, food, alcohol, or prescribed medicines may add to the problem. Swelling in both ankles that settles with rest can be temporary, while one-sided swelling with pain, warmth, or redness raises concern about a clot or infection.

Walk gently and move your ankles during breaks, avoid staying seated for long stretches, and rest with your feet raised. Drink normally, choose comfortable footwear, and protect swollen skin from rubbing or sunburn. Continue prescribed medicines as directed and carry enough for the trip. Ask a pharmacist or clinician before using compression garments, especially if swelling is new, one-sided, or painful. If symptoms began after a journey, record when they started and whether they are changing.

Seek urgent local medical help for one-sided swelling with calf pain, warmth, or redness; sudden breathlessness; chest pain; coughing blood; fainting; or severe weakness. Arrange a medical review if both ankles stay swollen after rest, swelling repeatedly returns, or you also develop breathlessness. Do not wait until you return home when warning symptoms are present.

Does my health history increase my risk during long journeys? Should I use compression garments or take travel precautions? Could any medicine or recent change in routine explain the swelling? What symptoms should lead me to local care?