Oedema

An oedema is swelling caused by fluid accumulating in the tissue. On the feet and ankles it often appears in the evening: shoes pinch, sock cuffs leave deep marks and a finger press remains visible as a dent.

Common causes

• heat, long periods of standing or sitting (e.g. on flights)
• venous insufficiency, varicose veins
• heart or kidney disease
• medication (e.g. certain blood pressure drugs)
• lymphatic drainage disorders (lymphoedema)
• pregnancy

What helps?

Putting your legs up, movement (circling the feet, rocking), cool showers and – if prescribed by a doctor – compression stockings. Sudden, one-sided or painful swelling must be checked by a doctor immediately (suspected thrombosis).

Relevance for foot care

Swollen skin is more sensitive and heals less well. Shoes that fit in the morning can pinch in the evening – so buy shoes in the afternoon and choose wide, adjustable models.