“Swollen feet” means your feet are enlarged or puffy because of fluid buildup in the tissues. In medicine this is called edema.
Common signs
Feet look bigger or puffy
Skin may look tight or shiny
If you press the skin, it may leave a dent for a few seconds (called pitting edema)
Shoes may feel tighter than usual
Common causes
Standing or sitting too long
Hot weather
High salt intake
Pregnancy
Poor circulation
Kidney, heart, or liver problems
Certain medications
Injury or infection
When it can be serious
You should seek medical help if swelling:
Appears suddenly
Is only in one foot
Comes with pain, redness, or warmth
Happens with shortness of breath or chest pain
