The shrinking of the Dead Sea is due to the diversion of water from the Jordan River (which feeds the Dead Sea) and mineral mining from its waters in the south, according to LiveScience. And the shrinking is happening at an alarming rateâthe surface level is dropping more than three feet a year.
Injury or surgery involving the leg, ankle, or foot can also cause swelling. Swelling may also occur after pelvic surgery, especially for cancer. Long airplane flights or car rides, as well as standing for long periods of time, often lead to some swelling in the feet and ankles.
What do swollen ankles mean? Quick Answer. According to WebMD, swollen ankles commonly occur when a person stands or walks a lot, but if swollen ankles persist or are accompanied by other symptoms, they could be an indication of a serious health problem, such as pregnancy complications, foot or ankle injury, lymphedema and venous insufficiency.