Hi,
Hypothyroidism can cause fluid retention which in turn can cause leg swelling. But there are other more common causes for leg and ankle swelling. Ankle swelling is a fairly common problem after a certain age. It happens due to the decreased circulation that occurs naturally with everyone with age.
In your case also, this is most likely due to your age. You should not worry about this. It need not be from the thyroid. Still, you should consult with your doctor for tests for thyroid levels. The most likely causes are:
Age related: Normal swelling that occurs with age.
Kidney diseases
Heart diseases
Liver diseases
Venous insufficiency
Lymphedema
You should take the following steps:
Elevate the feet during sleep, by putting a pillow under your feet at night.
Support stockings: these are available at pharmacies. Wear them as often as you can.
Exercise: a sedentary lifestyle will make you more prone to this.
Low salt diet: cut down salt in your diet.
If the swelling increases, you should consult your doctor. You will need tests for thyroid functions as well as for kidney, heart and liver diseases and also a doppler study of the veins in your leg.
You should look up these sites for some more info:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003104.htm
Lymphedema
I hope this answer was helpful. If you need more information, feel free to ask. For accepting this answer, please click on the green 'accept' button below. Feedback/Bonus will be warmly appreciated.
