Why do my fingers and ankles swell by the end of the day?
Ask the doctor
- Reviewed by Robert H. Shmerling, MD, Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
Q. I'm in my 60s, and I've noticed that my fingers and ankles - which look fine when I wake up - are often a bit swollen by the time I go to bed. Why does this happen?
A. Edema - swelling caused by fluid trapped in body tissues - can affect anyone, but especially people 65 and older. Fingers, ankles, and feet are common sites for edema, but it can also occur in your face, legs, or belly.
Many factors make edema more likely as we get older. Weakened valves in veins can lead to fluid buildup, particularly in the lower legs and ankles. Gravity amplifies this effect, leading fluids to pool in the arms and legs. Arthritis, which is estimated to affect more than half of older Americans, can also trigger edema. People who are inactive are more prone to the condition; so are those who take certain medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antidepressants, some blood pressure drugs, or steroids.
For many people, mild edema is nothing to worry about. But it can also signal underlying problems such as heart or kidney disease or circulation problems. Tell your doctor about your symptoms at your next appointment, but sooner if your swelling gets worse, becomes painful, or is joined by shortness of breath. Meanwhile, you can combat edema by moving around more, limiting salt, and elevating your legs while seated.
Image: © Virojt Changyencham/Getty Images
About the Reviewer
Robert H. Shmerling, MD, Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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