13/12/2025
🔑 WHAT ARE SWOLLEN FEET?
Swollen feet happen when fluid builds up in the body tissues. Sometimes it is harmless and short-lived, but other times it can be a warning sign of a serious health condition that needs medical attention.
🔑 STANDING OR SITTING TOO LONG
Remaining in one position for many hours slows blood flow back to the heart, allowing fluid to settle in the feet and ankles. This is common among traders, drivers, office workers, and long-distance travelers.
🎯 What to do:
✔ Raise your legs on a pillow when resting
✔ Walk around and stretch regularly
✔ Avoid tight shoes
🔑 PREGNANCY
Hormonal changes and pressure from the growing womb can cause fluid retention, especially in the last trimester.
🎯 What to do:
✔ Rest often and elevate the legs
✔ Sleep on your side
✔ Reduce salty foods
✔ Attend antenatal clinics
🚨 Sudden or severe swelling should be checked immediately
🔑 TOO MUCH SALT IN FOOD
High salt intake makes the body retain water, leading to swelling of the feet and hands.
🎯 What to do:
✔ Reduce salt intake
✔ Avoid seasoning cubes and processed foods
✔ Drink enough clean water daily
🔑 HEART PROBLEMS
When the heart cannot pump blood effectively, fluid backs up into the legs and feet. Swelling often worsens in the evening.
🎯 What to do:
✔ Visit a health facility promptly
✔ Reduce salt
✔ Take prescribed medication consistently
✔ Do not skip review appointments
🔑 KIDNEY PROBLEMS
Poor kidney function causes excess fluid to remain in the body, leading to swelling of the feet, face, or hands.
🎯 What to do:
✔ Seek medical evaluation
✔ Limit salt and sugar intake
✔ Take medicines as prescribed
🚫 Avoid self-medication
🔑 LIVER PROBLEMS
Liver disease can lower protein levels in the blood, causing fluid to leak into tissues, leading to swollen feet and abdomen.
🎯 What to do:
✔ Seek medical care early
✔ Avoid alcohol
✔ Eat balanced meals
✔ Follow medical advice
🔑 INFECTION
Infections can cause one-sided swelling with pain, redness, warmth, and sometimes fever.
🎯 What to do:
🚑 Go to the hospital early
🚫 Do not massage or apply herbs
🔑 INJURY OR SPRAIN
Falls or twists can cause swelling due to tissue damage.
🎯 What to do:
✔ Rest the leg
✔ Elevate it
✔ Apply cold packs
✔ See a doctor if swelling or pain persists
🔑 MEDICATION SIDE EFFECTS
Some medicines (e.g., blood pressure drugs, painkillers, hormones) may cause foot swelling.
🎯 What to do:
🚫 Do not stop medication on your own
✔ Inform your doctor for proper adjustment
🚨 SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL HELP IF SWELLING:
• Is sudden or painful
• Affects only one leg
• Comes with chest pain or shortness of breath
• Is associated with reduced urine output
🙏 FINAL MESSAGE
Swollen feet should never be ignored. Early evaluation helps identify the cause and prevents serious complications.
Your health matter
