148
FAMILY ILLNESS
Swollen ankles
If you have a painful swollen ankle, see p. 146 Slight, painless swelling of the ankles is most often caused by fluid accumulating in the tissues after long periods of sitting or standing still, but it may be due to heart, liver, or kidney disorders. Ankle swelling is common during pregnancy. If swelling persists or if you have other symptoms, consult your doctor.
Are you pregnant?
Pregnant
Not pregnant
START
Are both ankles affected?
Both ankles
One ankle
Have you been suffering from increased shortness of breath?
Shortness of breath
Is the calf of the affected leg either of the following?
Swollen
Tender
Neither
ACTION
CALL YOUR DOCTOR NOW You may have deep vein thrombosis( blood clot in a vein in your leg).
No shortness of breath
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS You may be suffering from heart failure, in which fluid accumulates around the body. Other possible causes are a liver or kidney problem.
Have you injured your ankle within the past few weeks?
Recent injury
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES Swelling can persist or recur for several weeks following an injury.
• If the injury occurred within the past 2 days, follow the first-aid advice for sprains and strains( p. 47).
• For a less recently sustained injury, try resting the limb for 48 hours.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if swelling persists despite rest or if the ankle is painful, tender, or inflamed.
No recent injury