Causes of Swollen Ankles

Answer 1

Ankle swelling is a common medical condition, and in most cases, it's harmless and will resolve itself on its own. In some cases of ankle swelling, however, there is cause for concern. If you're experiencing ankle swelling and you're unsure why, here are some common causes:

Injury

In cases where an ankle has sustained injury, ankle swelling can occur. Ankle injuries that tear or stretch ligaments may result in a sprain, and as with many other injuries, swelling can take place if the sprain is not cared for and protected.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is another common cause for ankle swelling. In fact, swelling of all extremities during pregnancy is normal, but ankle swelling is often noticed more due to gravity. It should be noted that if this swelling is accompanied by vision changes and abdominal pain, a more serious medical condition may be present, so women who experience these symptoms are encouraged to seek immediate medical care.

Venous Dysfunction

In some people, ankle swelling occurs as a result of venous dysfunction, or a dysfunction of the veins. If heart valves become damaged or stop functioning properly, blood can back up in the body, and this can lead to swelling in the extremities, including the ankles.

Diabetes

Individuals who are suffering from Diabetes may also experience ankle swelling due to neuropathy. If this sign occurs in a diabetic patient, it is advised to seek medical assistance as soon as possible, as deadened nerves may not allow diabetics to feel the other effects of the disease, including painful sores and blisters.

Medications

Some medications are also known to create swollen ankles, including antidepressant drugs and steroids. Additionally, hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, can lead to ankle swelling.

Keep in mind that there are a number of other causes for swollen ankles, and people who suffer from this condition are encouraged to monitor their health closely. If you experience swollen ankles for more than a day, or if your ankle swelling is accompanied by other health problems, you need to seek out the services of your primary care physician, or in some cases, your local hospital's emergency room.