Swollen ankles

Introduction

Oedema is abuild up of fluid in the body which causes the affected tissue to become swollen .

The swelling can occurin one particular part of the bodyor may be more general, depending on the cause.

Fluid can accumulate under the skin most commonly causing swelling of the lower legs and ankles or in one of the body's internal organs, such as the lungs.

As well as swelling or puffiness of the skin, oedema can also cause:

skin discolouration
areas of skin that temporarily hold the imprint of your finger when pressed (known as pitting oedema)
aching, tender limbs
stiff joints
weight gain

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 1 Aug 2016

Articles for swollen ankles

Introduction

Read about oedema (dropsy), which is the medical term for fluid retention in the body. Oedema often causes swelling in the feet and ankles.

Types of oedema

Oedemais most common in the feet and ankles. This is known as peripheral oedema. Other types of oedema include: cerebral oedema affecting the brain pulmonary oedema affecting the lungs macular oe

Causes of oedema

It's normal to havesome swelling in yourlegs at the end of the day, particularly if you've been sitting or standing for long periods. Oedema is often a symptom of an underlying health condition. It c

Treating oedema

Oedema is often temporary and clears up by itself. For example, if you've been standing up fortoo long on a hot day, your ankles may swell up until you get the chance to put your feet up and rest. If

Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema isswelling in the legs caused by ablockage in the lymphatic system, or an inherited condition. The lymphatic system consists of a series of lymph nodes (glands) connected by a network of

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