Swollen feet and legs are a common complaint. As we get older, the likelihood of noticing swelling in our legs and feet increases.

The swelling can be uncomfortable — and it’s definitely something you should discuss with your primary care provider.

Reasons your feet can swell

Here are some reasons your legs and feet may swell:

• Medications – Certain medications for blood pressure or pain can lead to swelling in the feet and legs — especially calcium-channel blockers like Norvasc, Cardizem, AdalatCC, Procardia and others.
• Vein problems – Veins in the legs have valves that help push blood back up to the heart. Over time, those veins can become weaker. This can lead to varicose veins, swelling and discomfort. 
• Kidney disease – Part of the kidneys’ function is to filter excess fluid from the body. If the kidneys are not working well, excess fluid stays in the body, pooling in the legs and feet. 
• Heart failure – It takes a lot of work to pump blood out to the legs and feet — and it’s the pressure from the oxygenated out-bound blood that pushes the spent blood back to the heart. If the heart isn’t pumping as well as it should, the blood pools in the legs and feet. 
• Bone and tendon issues – Fractures, arthritis, tendinitis and other orthopedic issues can lead to swelling. 
• Sitting for long periods – Walking stimulates the leg muscles and keeps them strong, and improves your circulation. However, sitting causes muscles to weaken and can affect your body’s ability to circulate blood through your legs and feet. 
• Sodium – Sodium, or salt, causes your body to retain fluid, which can pool in your legs and feet. Even if you’ve banished the salt shaker from the kitchen, you can find plenty of sodium hidden in prepackaged foods, condiments, cold cuts and other foods.

What you can do about swollen feet

There are, fortunately, some things you can do to help reduce swelling.

• Wear compression stockings – Compression stockings squeeze the legs and feet, limiting the space where it builds up. They help push the fluid out of the legs and feet.
• Keep your legs elevated – While your boss might frown if you prop your feet up on your desk all day, elevating your feet and legs are an easy way to decrease swelling. Try propping your feet on a pillow in the evenings.
• Go to bed – Lying flat is the next best thing to elevating your feet. If you find yourself dozing in a recliner, not only are you probably not getting the most restful sleep — but your feet aren’t elevated very high, either. 

If you’re suffering from swollen feet, speak to your primary care provider. They’ll be able to help drill down on the source of the swelling and offer you the best advice to keep it in check.

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