Why Do Ankles Swell in the Elderly? Understanding the Common Causes in Octogenarians

Over the past few days, social media has been flooded with rumors about Donald Trump’s health, with some even speculating about his death after he remained out of public view for more than 72 hours. While these claims are unfounded and there is no credible evidence to support them, the speculation gained traction after news broke that Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)—a condition where blood flow in the leg veins becomes impaired, causing swelling, bruising, and discomfort.

Because of this rumor, it becomes timely and relevant to discuss a much wider health concern:

ankle swelling in octogenarians (people in their 80s). While it may look like a simple issue, ankle swelling—also called peripheral edema—can often be a sign of underlying medical conditions that require careful evaluation.

Common Causes of Ankle Swelling in the Elderly

1. Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)

The link with Trump: CVI occurs when vein valves in the legs weaken with age, causing blood to pool in the lower limbs. Symptoms: Persistent swelling, skin discoloration, visible veins, and sometimes leg ulcers.

2. Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

The heart’s reduced pumping ability leads to fluid retention in ankles and legs. Often accompanied by shortness of breath, fatigue, and sudden weight gain from fluid buildup.

3. Kidney Function Decline

With aging or chronic disease, kidneys fail to filter excess salt and water effectively. Swelling may appear not only in ankles but also in the face and abdomen.

4. Liver Disease

A weakened liver produces less albumin, a protein that helps maintain fluid balance. Results in ankle edema and sometimes abdominal swelling (ascites).

5. Medication Side Effects

Certain drugs commonly prescribed to seniors can cause ankle swelling:

Calcium channel blockers (blood pressure medication) Steroids NSAIDs (pain relievers) Hormone therapies

6. Inactivity and Immobility

Seniors who sit or lie down for long hours often develop ankle swelling because of poor circulation. Light walking, stretching, and ankle exercises can help prevent it.

7. Nutritional Deficiencies

Low protein intake, common in the elderly with reduced appetite, leads to fluid imbalance and swelling.

8. Other Serious Conditions

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Sudden, painful swelling in one leg; a medical emergency. Infections: Cellulitis causes red, hot, painful swelling. Lymphedema: Fluid retention from blocked lymphatic drainage.

When to Seek Urgent Care

Elderly patients with ankle swelling should see a doctor if they experience:

Sudden, one-sided swelling Pain, redness, or warmth in the leg Shortness of breath or chest pain Rapid, unexplained weight gain

Final Word

Donald Trump’s health rumors may have started as internet chatter, but they draw attention to an important medical reality: ankle swelling in octogenarians should never be dismissed as “normal aging.” Whether caused by vein problems like CVI, heart failure, kidney issues, or medications, ankle edema can reveal serious underlying conditions.

The key message is clear: don’t ignore swelling—address it early with proper medical evaluation. For seniors, this can mean the difference between comfort and complications in their golden years.

Dr Om Patil is orthopedic and Spine Surgeon in Mumbai writing regularly on healthcare updates and misinformation on google for the patients, Healthcare expert in geriatric care and elderly fracture doctor in Mumbai