Conversely, remaining immobile and not moving enough also slows venous return to the heart, causing swelling that worsens throughout the day. The presence of varicose veins or venous insufficiency can also cause edema in the feet at night. “In these veins, the valves that allow blood to return to the heart no longer function properly. As a result, blood pools in the legs and the feet swell ,” explains the specialist.
Medications can also be the cause.
Although less well-known, some medications can also cause swelling in the feet at the end of the day. “Swelling of the lower extremities is the main side effect of blood pressure medications that belong to the class of calcium channel blockers (e.g., Ercan, Amlor) ,” explains Dr. Salloum. Other medications can also cause these symptoms: some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and, in particular, antidepressants.
My feet swell at night, what are the most serious causes?
“Generally, the most serious causes result in persistent swelling, not just during the day ,” the angiologist reminds us. Possible causes include:
- Heart failure : the heart suffers and pumps blood with difficulty, causing fluid to accumulate in the legs.
- Kidney failure : the kidneys do not filter properly, leading to water and sodium retention.
- Cirrhosis : causes a decrease in blood albumin and a leakage of fluid into the tissues, resulting in this edema.
- Deep vein thrombosis : a blood clot obstructs the veins in the legs, preventing blood from returning to the heart.
- Erysipelas : a skin infection that also causes edema due to inflammation of the subcutaneous and cutaneous tissues.
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Besides a serious underlying cause, fortunately there are ways to prevent this bothersome swelling. The vascular specialist primarily recommends regular movement. “Avoid sitting or standing for long periods without moving, and take a few steps or get up every 30 minutes ,” she advises. Dr. Salloum also emphasizes the importance of ankle movements (flexion/extension, rotation), even while seated.
