Swollen feet pregnancy: It is common to have pedal edema or swollen feet during pregnancy. Edema results from fluid retention in the body. Hands, feet, and breasts can get swollen because of this fluid retention. During pregnancy, the volume of blood in the body greatly increases. Due to this, water begins to accumulate in the tissues.
Swollen feet pregnant
One of the most common struggles of expectant moms is when they experience having itchy swollen feet while pregnant. Water retention also occurs because of the increasing pressure that the uterus exerts on the organs and the veins that carry blood.
When the veins get pressed, blood circulation in the lower extremities slows down, causing both blood and water to get pooled in the legs and the feet. Fortunately, the swelling is temporary and subsides rather quickly. While you will have this problem during pregnancy, it will gradually subside after giving birth.
Swollen feet pregnancy: What to do for swollen feet when pregnant?
Photo by Andre Furtado from Pexels
Pregnancy-related foot and ankle edema is typical and often goes down after birth. If you are wondering what to do for swollen feet when pregnant, here are some ways that may help according to Mayo Clinic:
- Limit your time spent standing. When possible, sit with your feet raised while intermittently rotating your ankles and lightly flexing your foot to stretch your calf muscles. Ideally, lift your legs when you lie down.
- Wearing supportive tights or compression stockings during the day could be advised by your doctor.
- Sleep on your left side. By sleeping on your left side, the major vein that carries blood from your lower body back to your heart is relieved of pressure. Your legs being slightly raised with pillows may also be of assistance.
- Have light exercises and be physically active every day.
Itchy swollen feet while pregnant
Home remedies for swollen feet during pregnancy
You might be wondering what are the home remedies for swollen feet during pregnancy. In this article we listed some of the things that may help you get a relief from swelling. According to Healthline, the following are home remedies for swollen feet during pregnancy
Boost your potassium intake
Lack of potassium can exacerbate swelling. This is due to potassium’s role in balancing your body’s fluid retention.
Eat foods that are naturally rich in potassium such as bananas, beans, sweet potatoes and potatoes with the skin on. There are also fruits that are high on potassium like orange, pomegranate and passionfruit. Yogurt and salmon are also good source of potassium.
Limit your caffeine intake
Caffeine may worsen edema. It is a diuretic, so it makes you urinate more, which leads your body to believe that it needs to retain fluid.
Photo by Toni Cuenca from Pexels
Drink plenty of water
Your body will attempt to make up for any perceived dehydration by retaining even more fluid. Therefore, make an effort to consume at least 10 glasses of water each day to keep your body hydrated and your kidneys flushing out the bad stuff.
Massage
Swelling can be reduced by massage because it promotes circulation of the fluids that build up in your feet. Allow your partner to gently massage your feet, or you can visit massage parlors that specialize in pregnancy massages.
Reduce sodium intake
Limiting your sodium or salt intake is one method for reducing edema during pregnancy. Your body holds onto more water when you consume salt.
Attempt to stay away from processed or canned foods, which tend to be particularly rich in sodium. Try to avoid adding more table salt to your diet.
Hot or cold water for swollen feet during pregnancy?
Swollen feet pregnant
Hot or cold water are both helpful for swollen feet during pregnancy. You can reduce discomfort and swelling and lower your body temperature by applying an ice pack or cold compress to the injured region. Additionally, you may opt to use a pool, bathtub, or even a big bowl to submerge your feet and ankles in cool water for 20 minutes a few times a week to reduce swelling.
Another option is to get a sizable bowl or basin and add warm water and 1/2 cup of Epsom salt to it. Not only may soaking your feet for 15 minutes aid with edema reduction, but it may also help with foot pain. Make sure the water isn’t too hot.
Photo by Jeshoots from Pexels
Elevate your feet
Whenever possible, elevate your legs to reduce swelling. Prop your feet up on a pillow when sitting or lying down.
Regular exercise
Engage in gentle exercises like walking or swimming to improve circulation and prevent fluid buildup.
Wear comfortable shoes
Opt for comfortable, supportive shoes with a low heel to reduce pressure on your feet.
Wear compression stockings
Consider wearing compression stockings to promote blood circulation and prevent swelling.
Avoid prolonged standing or sitting
Take breaks to stretch and move around if you have a job that requires long periods of standing or sitting.
Have a healthy diet
Maintain a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-sodium foods to prevent water retention.
Consult your healthcare provider
If swelling seems excessive or sudden, consult your healthcare provider. It could be a sign of a more serious condition such as preeclampsia.
Always consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your routine or trying new remedies to ensure they are safe for you and your baby.
Pregnant feet hurt but not swollen
Swelling is not the only problem you may encounter during pregnancy concerning your feet. You may also experience the painful over-pronation.
Pregnant feet hurt but not swollen
The pressure from increased pregnancy weight might cause the feet’s arches to flatten, causing discomfort and even pain.
While some foot flattening is normal during pregnancy, excessive flattening might result in foot pain and, in the long run, knee issues. Even walking may become difficult due to over-pronation.
Complications
According to Medical News Today, swelling during pregnancy occasionally indicates a medical problem. If a woman notices any abrupt or rapid rise in swelling, she should call her doctor.
A sudden increase in foot swelling may indicate preeclampsia. Women may also experience sudden hand swelling, eye swelling, or a puffy or bloated face. Preeclampsia is a medical condition that can develop either during pregnancy or after giving birth. Extremely high blood pressure and organ issues are brought on by preeclampsia in pregnant women.
Additional information from Jobelle Macayan
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