Thicker ankles are usually harmless. However, swollen ankles could potentially signal a deeper medical issue. From hip dips to cankles, it seems like society can turn perfectly normal body parts into a prob. Cankles is a not-so-nice slang term for ankles that blend into the feet. Aesthetically speaking, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with them. Thicker bones and more fat in the ankles may simply be due to genes and lifestyle factors. But sometimes, the ankles may swell and retain fluid due to an underlying medical prob like diabetes or hypothyroidism.Here’s what to know!Several factors may contribute to the appearance of cankles, including:PredispositionSome people have thicker ankles, and if your mama has them, you may be more likely to have them, too. Genes impact bone structure and fat distribution, which may also impact ankle size. LifestyleBeing considered overweight or obese can put extra stress on the ankles as well as let more fat collect there. Not getting much exercise may also cause fluid to accumulate around the ankles.MedicationsCertain medications may cause the ankles to swell and appear thicker, including:antidepressantsblood pressure medicationbirth control pillshormone therapysteroidsInjury or infectionAnkle or calf injuries can lead to swelling, including:bruisingsprainsstrainsbacterial skin infectionsMedical conditionsSeveral medical conditions may contribute to cankles, including:cellulitis diabetes lipedema pregnancyliver disease lymphedema kidney issues hypothyroidism Cushing’s syndrome venous insufficiency deep vein thrombosisIf your ankles are thicker or swollen, you may wonder what to do about them. Based on their cause, here’s what to do.Genetic predisposition or bone structureCankles are super common, not necessarily a reason for concern, and def nothing to be ashamed about. But ultimately, your bod, your choice. If you wanna slim the appearance of your cankles due to fat distribution or bone structure, you can:exercise regularly and eat healthilybulk up your calf muscles with targeted strength training (making the ankles appear smaller)liposuction may be an option, though it comes with risksFluid retention or swellingSome ankles may appear larger due to fluid retention and swelling. If that sounds like you, here’s what to do:Wear compression socks to promote circulation.If you have lymphedema, try lymphatic drainage massages or exercises.Drink plenty of water, and don’t overdo salty foods to reduce fluid buildup.Take diuretics or other medications to reduce water retention. Just check with your doctor first.Visit a healthcare provider for support treating an underlying medical issue like venous insufficiency, lymphedema, or hypothyroidism.Excess weightIf you suspect you have thicker ankles due to your weight, you may want to try:trying low-impact exercisesgradually losing weight with a healthy diet and exerciseavoiding rapid weight loss, which could increase swellingNo obvious issueIf you’re not sure what’s causing your cankles, consider hitting up a doc. Diagnostic testing can help rule out issues like blood clotting or infections.Cosmetic concerns or body dysmorphiaYour ankles may be perfectly healthy and normal. But since we’re used to seeing edited and airbrushed images, it’s easy to see an issue without one.If you’re picking apart or obsessing over the appearance of your ankles or other body parts, you’re not alone. Body image issues may signal an issue like low self-esteem or dysmorphia that can be resolved with support from a mental health pro.Practicing self-love, acceptance, and body positivity may also help you embrace your ankles and get back to enjoying life. If you’re unsure what’s causing your ankle swelling, visiting a doctor is a good idea. You also should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:painful or sudden onset swellingswelling that worsens heat, redness, or inflammation in the anklesankle swelling with fever, chest pain, or breath shortnessPSA: If you have diabetes and have swollen ankles, visit a doctor ASAP. This could signal heart or kidney issues that need prompt medical attention. Though ‘cankles’ are usually harmless, swollen ankles may sometimes signal a medical issue like hypothyroidism or diabetes. Visiting a doc for a thorough diagnosis is recommended.If your ankles are a cosmetic concern, consider speaking to a therapist about body image issues before trying measures like exercise or weight loss.