How to Reduce Swelling In Feet?
Got swollen feet? Discover easy and effective home remedies and lifestyle tips to reduce swelling and find comfort.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
Introduction
Swelling in the feet, also known as edema, is a common issue that many people experience at some point in their lives. It can be uncomfortable, painful, and sometimes a sign of an underlying health condition. The good news is that there are several simple and effective ways to reduce swelling and improve comfort.
What Causes Swelling in the Feet?
Swelling occurs when excess fluid gets trapped in the body’s tissues. Some common causes include:
Prolonged Standing or Sitting: Staying in one position for too long can cause fluid to pool in the feet and ankles.
Injury or Sprain: Trauma to the foot or ankle can lead to swelling as part of the body’s healing response.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased pressure on blood vessels can cause fluid retention.
High Salt Intake: Eating too much salt can lead to water retention, making feet swell.
Medications: Certain drugs, like blood pressure medications or steroids, may cause swelling as a side effect.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like heart disease, kidney problems, or venous insufficiency can contribute to edema.
How to Reduce Swelling in Feet
Swelling may be reduced in the feet through the following ways, which include:
Elevate Your Feet: Raise your feet above heart level for 15-20 minutes several times a day to help drain excess fluid.
Stay Active and Move Regularly: Avoid prolonged sitting or standing; take short walks and stretch to improve circulation.
Wear Comfortable Shoes and Compression Socks: Choose well-fitting, supportive shoes, and use compression socks to aid blood flow back to the heart.
Reduce Salt in Your Diet: Limit processed and salty foods to prevent water retention.
Stay Hydrated: Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily to help flush out excess sodium and reduce fluid buildup.
Massage Your Feet: Gently massage your feet and ankles upward to encourage fluid drainage.
Apply Cold Compress: For swelling due to injury, apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth for 10-15 minutes.
Exercise Regularly: Low-impact activities improve circulation and prevent fluid retention.
Avoid Tight Clothing: Wear loose, breathable clothing to prevent restricted blood flow.
Check Your Medications: Consult your doctor if you suspect medications are causing swelling.
Consult Top Physician For Swelling Feet
When to See a Doctor
While mild swelling is usually harmless, consult a doctor if you notice:
Sudden or severe swelling
Swelling in only one foot
Pain, redness, or warmth in the swollen area
Shortness of breath or chest pain (could indicate a heart or lung issue)
If swelling persists despite home remedies, it may signal an underlying condition like kidney disease, heart failure, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A doctor can diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
Swollen feet can be bothersome, but simple lifestyle changes often bring relief. Elevating your legs, staying active, and watching your salt intake can make a big difference. If swelling doesn’t improve or is accompanied by other symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.
For personalized guidance, you can book a consultation with a specialist on Apollo 24|7. Early diagnosis and proper care can help keep your feet healthy and pain free!
Stay active, stay hydrated, and take care of your feet—they carry you through life!
Consult Top Physician
Consult Top Physician For Swelling Feet
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Harshendra Jaiswal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine)
Kolkata
108 DHANA DHANVANTARI Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Dhanraj K
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine - Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(375+ Patients)
Dr Bhargav Vuppumalla
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS MD GENERAL MEDICINE
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Consult Top Physician
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Harshendra Jaiswal
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine)
Kolkata
108 DHANA DHANVANTARI Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Dhanraj K
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine - Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(375+ Patients)
Dr Bhargav Vuppumalla
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS MD GENERAL MEDICINE
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
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