Dear Dr. SerVaas: Can varicose veins cause the feet and ankles to swell? I have had painless swelling off and on for several years. My heart and kidneys are healthy.

Anne Dennis
Tipton, Indiana

Dear Reader: Varicose veins are one cause of swelling in the ankles and feet--a condition called edema. When leg veins are damaged, fluid may leak out of the blood vessels and into the ankle and leg tissues. Other causes of edema include heart disease, long airplane flights, and allergic reactions, as well as certain blood pressure medications and antidepressants.

Painless swelling of the feet and ankles is a common problem in older people. Doctors sometimes prescribe diuretics (water pills) to reduce the stress on blood vessels and to control swelling. In addition, the following home measures may be helpful:

• Elevate the legs above the heart while lying down.

• Avoid sitting or standing without moving for prolonged periods of time.

• Avoid putting anything directly under the knees when lying down.

• Don't wear constricting clothing or garters on the upper legs:

• Exercise the legs to work fluid back into the veins.

• Wear elastic bandages or support stockings.

• Follow a low-salt diet.