Prednisone, a powerful corticosteroid, can cause fluid retention, leading to swollen ankles – a condition known as edema. This happens because prednisone increases sodium and water retention by your kidneys. The extra fluid builds up in your body’s tissues, resulting in swelling, most noticeably in the ankles and feet due to gravity.
Managing Prednisone-Induced Swelling
Elevating your legs several times a day helps reduce swelling. Support stockings can also provide relief by gently compressing your legs, improving circulation and reducing fluid pooling. Staying hydrated, counterintuitively, can help flush excess sodium from your system. Consult your doctor about adjusting your sodium intake; a low-sodium diet might be beneficial. Regular, gentle exercise, such as walking, promotes better circulation and reduces fluid retention. If the swelling is severe or accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain, seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor might recommend diuretics to help your body eliminate excess fluid, but self-medicating is dangerous.
Potential Underlying Causes
While prednisone is a common cause, other conditions can contribute to ankle swelling. Heart, kidney, or liver problems can cause fluid retention, as can venous insufficiency (problems with blood flow in the veins). It’s vital that your doctor assesses your overall health to determine the exact cause of your swelling and to rule out any serious underlying medical issues. They can provide a tailored treatment plan to manage the swelling and address any underlying health concerns.
