SWOLLEN ANKLES 149
Does either of the following apply?
Your face or fingers are swollen
You have gained over 5 lb( 2.3 kg) in the past week
Neither
Did your ankles become swollen during either of the following?
A long train, car, or bus trip
Airplane flight
Neither
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES Hours of inactivity will lead to accumulation of fluid in the ankles and increases the risk of developing a blood clot.
• Clear excess fluid by taking a brisk walk.
• Avoid sitting or standing still for long periods.
• When seated, keep your legs raised.
ACTION
CALL YOUR DOCTOR
NOW Retaining excessive amounts of fluid may be a symptom of preeclampsia, which, if severe, can be serious.
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES Swollen ankles are common during pregnancy, particularly in the last 3 months.
• Avoid standing still for long periods.
• Put your feet up whenever possible.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if your face and / or fingers become swollen or if you start to put on weight rapidly.
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR Your symptom may be a side effect of the drug.
• Stop taking any overthe-counter medicines but continue to take prescribed medication unless advised to stop by your doctor.
Are you currently taking any medication?
Medication
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES You may have varicose veins, which can cause fluid to accumulate in the ankles.
• Avoid standing still for long periods.
• Walk as much as possible.
• When sitting down, try to keep your feet raised above hip level.
• Wear support hose.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if the swelling worsens or if other symptoms develop.
Do you have prominent veins in one or both legs affected by swelling?
Prominent veins
No prominent veins
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you cannot identify a possible cause for your swollen ankles from this chart.
No medication