Q. How do you get rid of swelling in your ankles?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Swollen ankles can be a real pain, but there are a few things you can do to help reduce the swelling:
1. Elevate your legs: Lie down and prop your legs up on some pillows so they're above the level of your heart. This helps to encourage fluid drainage from your ankles.
2. Compression socks: These tight socks can help reduce swelling by putting gentle pressure on your legs, which helps move the fluid away from your ankles.
3. Move around: Sitting or standing for long periods can make swelling worse. Try to take breaks and walk around a bit to get your blood flowing.
4. Reduce salt intake: Eating too much salt can cause your body to retain water, which can lead to swelling. Try to cut back on salty foods and snacks.
5. Stay hydrated: It might seem counterintuitive, but drinking plenty of water can actually help reduce swelling. When you're dehydrated, your body holds onto water, which can make swelling worse.
6. Massage: Gently massaging your ankles can help stimulate blood flow and reduce swelling. Just be careful not to press too hard, as that can actually make things worse.
7. Cold compress: Applying a cold compress or ice pack to your ankles can help reduce swelling and numb any pain you might be feeling.
8. Check your medications: Some medications can cause swelling as a side effect. If you think your medication might be the culprit, talk to your doctor about alternatives.
If your swelling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like pain, redness, or warmth, it's important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying health issues.
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