Swollen feet might seem harmless, but they can signal underlying health issues. When your feet or ankles appear puffy, it often means fluid is building up—a condition called edema. Common causes include poor circulation from standing or sitting too long, high salt intake, hormonal changes, or medication side effects.
Simple steps like elevating your legs, staying active, and reducing sodium can help. However, persistent swelling may point to heart, kidney, or liver problems, as these organs control fluid balance. Swelling with pain, redness, or warmth could indicate infection, inflammation, or even a blood clot—requiring urgent care. While temporary swelling from heat or pregnancy is usually harmless, ongoing or worsening symptoms should always be checked by a doctor.
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