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Oedema

Understanding and living with oedema

Oedema is a condition which causes the swelling of the ankles, feet and legs due to a build-up of fluid.

What causes oedema?

Oedema can have many causes, such as standing and sitting for long periods of time, being overweight or pregnant, or taking certain medication like blood pressure tablets, contraception or antidepressants. Injuries like sprains or strains can also cause oedema, as well as liver, kidney or heart problems.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of oedema swollen or puffy areas like the feet, ankles and legs. The skin in these affected areas may also appear red and shiny, as if it is stretched. If touched, the swollen areas may retain an imprint of your fingerprints for longer than usual.

Living with oedema

Oedema swelling normally goes down by itself, but there are some home remedies you can to improve the condition.

Raise your feet and legs with pillow when lying down.
Do gentle exercise like walking to improve circulation.
Choose wide, comfortable shoes with low heels and soft soles.
Regularly wash your feet to avoid any infections.
Make sure not to sit or stand for long periods of time.
Don't wear tight or restrictive socks or shoes.

Useful products

Living with oedema can be helped by the right product. At Ability Superstore, we stock numerous items, designed to help make life comfier. Browse our specialist oedema category here, for our top products on assisting with the physical symptoms of oedema.

Our range of oedema socks include features such as an elastic-free design and no heels, to make putting them on easier.

To improve blood flow in the affected areas, our leg raisers and positioning wedges help to reduce oedema swelling when laying down. Simply place them beneath your legs, feet or ankles when resting or sleeping.

When walking around in the home, it's important to wear comfortable and non-restrictive footwear to prevent further swelling. Shop our range of wide-fit slippers here, including features such as easy velcro fastenings and soft soles.