Swollen feet (oedema) are more common than most people think. For some, it’s just a temporary nuisance after a long day on your feet. For others, it can signal an underlying health condition that needs attention.
Understanding the causes of feet swelling is the first step in finding the right treatment and — just as importantly — knowing when to seek medical advice.
📌 At a Glance
All the key facts on Oedema in one place — no scrolling, no searching.
Learn the main causes of feet swelling, what symptoms to look out for, and practical steps to find relief.
Jump straight to 20 Common Questions & Answers.
What Is Oedema?
Oedema is the medical term for swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in body tissues. In the feet and ankles, it happens because gravity pulls fluid downwards. Sometimes it’s mild and harmless; other times it signals something more serious.
Looking for a bigger picture view of foot pain? You’ll find it in our Complete Guide to Foot Pain Relief — a practical overview that covers every cause from heel to toe and how to ease it fast.
Common Causes of Feet Swelling
- Prolonged standing or sitting – fluid pools when circulation slows.
- Heat – warm weather widens blood vessels, leading to more fluid leakage.
- Pregnancy – hormonal changes and pressure on veins increase swelling risk.
- Injury – sprains or fractures trigger inflammation and swelling.
- Medication side effects – blood pressure tablets, steroids, and some antidepressants can cause fluid build-up.
- Medical conditions:
- Heart failure
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Blood clots (DVT)
- Lymphoedema
Symptoms of Oedema in the Feet
- Puffiness or a feeling of heaviness
- Shiny, stretched-looking skin
- Indentations left when pressing on the skin (“pitting oedema”)
- Reduced mobility or stiffness
- Tight shoes or socks leaving deep marks
Why the Right Shoes Matter
Swollen feet demand footwear that adapts. The wrong shoes can worsen pain, restrict circulation, and increase the risk of blisters. The best shoes for swollen feet typically have:
- Wide, deep toe boxes
- Stretchable uppers
- Cushioned soles
- Adjustable fastenings (Velcro or laces)
- Removable insoles for orthotics
👉 Read more: Best Shoes for Swollen Feet During Pregnancy
At-Home Relief and Prevention Tips
- Elevate your legs above heart level when resting.
- Avoid sitting or standing in one position for too long.
- Wear compression socks (if approved by your doctor).
- Stay active — even gentle ankle rotations help.
- Reduce salt intake to prevent fluid retention.
- Choose supportive, wide-fit shoes.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical advice if swelling:
- Comes on suddenly
- Affects only one leg
- Is painful, red, or warm (possible blood clot)
- Is severe or persistent despite rest
- Occurs with shortness of breath, chest pain, or rapid weight gain
If you have diabetes or poor circulation, swollen feet can sometimes be a sign of nerve changes — our guide on diabetic neuropathy and footwear explains how to protect your feet and choose safer shoes.
20 Questions on Feet Swelling (Oedema)
Q: Is swelling in the feet always a sign of a medical problem?
A: Not always. It can be due to heat, standing too long, or minor injury. Persistent or painful swelling should be checked.
Q: Why do my feet swell at night?
A: Fluid accumulates during the day from gravity and reduced circulation. Elevating your feet before bed can help.
Q: Can dehydration cause swollen feet?
A: Surprisingly, yes. When dehydrated, the body retains fluid, sometimes leading to swelling.
Q: Do salty foods make feet swell?
A: Yes. Excess salt increases water retention, worsening oedema.
Q: Can swollen feet be related to shoes?
A: Yes. Tight or unsupportive shoes trap fluid and increase discomfort. Wide-fit, cushioned shoes reduce pressure.
Q: Are swollen feet common in pregnancy?
A: Very. Hormonal changes and increased blood volume make swelling likely, especially in the third trimester.
Q: What’s the difference between oedema and lymphoedema?
A: Oedema is general fluid build-up; lymphoedema occurs when lymphatic drainage is blocked.
Q: Can exercise reduce swollen feet?
A: Yes. Gentle walking, calf raises, and ankle rotations improve circulation.
Q: Does hot weather make feet swell more?
A: Yes, heat dilates blood vessels, allowing more fluid to leak into tissues.
Q: Can swollen feet be a side effect of medication?
A: Yes. Drugs for blood pressure, diabetes, or hormones often list swelling as a side effect.
Q: Do compression socks really work?
A: Yes, they improve circulation and prevent fluid pooling if fitted correctly.
Q: Can heart problems cause swollen feet?
A: Yes. Heart failure reduces blood flow, causing fluid to back up in legs and feet.
Q: Are there quick fixes for swollen feet?
A: Elevating your legs, applying cool compresses, and wearing supportive shoes bring quick relief.
Q: Can drinking more water help with oedema?
A: Yes. Staying hydrated prevents the body from holding onto excess fluid.
Q: Do swollen feet mean kidney disease?
A: Not necessarily, but kidney problems can reduce fluid balance. Persistent swelling should be checked.
Q: Can I massage swollen feet?
A: Gentle massage can help move fluid, unless caused by blood clots or infections.
Q: Do swollen feet always need treatment?
A: Mild, temporary swelling often settles with rest and elevation. Chronic or severe swelling requires medical advice.
Q: Can being overweight cause swollen feet?
A: Yes, extra weight increases pressure on blood vessels and tissues, leading to fluid build-up.
Q: Why do my feet swell more on flights?
A: Long periods of sitting and cabin pressure both reduce circulation. Move around regularly and wear compression socks.
Q: Are there home remedies that really work?
A: Yes — leg elevation, hydration, reduced salt, compression socks, and supportive shoes are the most effective.
📌 Summary
Feet swelling (oedema) can result from simple lifestyle factors like heat or standing too long — but it can also signal heart, kidney, or circulation issues. Supportive shoes, lifestyle tweaks, and medical advice when needed are the key to relief and long-term foot health.