10 Causes of Swollen Ankles
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Cause #8: Heart Disease
In heart disease, the heart becomes weaker and is no longer able to pump blood as efficiently as normal. As the blood flow out of the heart slows down, the blood that returns to the heart via the veins also slows down. This leads to pooling of blood in the lower limbs leading to swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs.
Another contributing factor is the decreased ability of the kidneys to excrete sodium and water due to heart disease. this also increases the retention of fluid in the body leading to more swelling. Other symptoms of heart disease include breathlessness, wheezing, fluid retention, weakness, nausea, loss of appetite, and confusion.
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