Peripheral edema is a medical condition characterized by an excess accumulation of fluids in the ankles. Swelling of the ankles may be caused by injury or an underlying medical condition such as gout, arthritis, heart disease or kidney failure. Anti-inflammatory medications as well as symptom relief treatments, such as the elevation the feet and compression dressing, can help reduce swelling in the ankles.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease characterized by a systemic inflammation of the joints. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system produces antibodies against one's own tissue, primarily the joints, resulting in symmetric swelling and stiffness of the joints. The joints most commonly affected by rheumatoid arthritis include the joint of the hands, wrist, ankles, knees and elbows. The antibodies produced by the immune system result in a symmetric swelling of the joints of the wrists, elbows, ankles, and knees. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, about 90 percent of individuals afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis eventually develop swelling and pain in the ankles.
Gout
Gout is a medical condition caused by an accumulation of uric acid in the body. Uric acid is a chemical produced in the body to transport waste products. Uric acid is also produced in the body after consuming high protein meals. In healthy individuals, uric acid is filtered out of the blood by the kidney and excreted in urine. In individuals with gout, uric acid accumulates and forms crystals within the fluids of the joints. The accumulation of uric acid causes an inflammation of the joints resulting in swelling and pain in the ankles notes MayoClinic.com.
Varicose Veins
Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the heart to our organs and tissues. Veins are blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood from our lower extremities to the lungs to become oxygenated. Veins have one way valves that prevent the back flow of blood and leakage of fluids in the tissues. Varicose veins are enlarged blood veins with faulty valves. Varicose veins are commonly found in the legs and thigh due to prolonged standing and walking which increases the pressure in the veins of the legs and thighs. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, varicose veins causes swelling of the ankles.
