Causes of leg swelling during pregnancy

Most pregnant women face the problem of edema. Every gynecologist observing the condition of a pregnant woman checks for swelling. The swelling itself, which goes away in the morning, is not dangerous, but if additional symptoms are present, it can harm not only the pregnant woman, but also the fetus.

Why do feet swell during pregnancy?

Throughout pregnancy, a woman’s body needs more than 2 liters of water per day, that is, the daily norm increases significantly. At the same time, fluid removal slows down due to the accumulation of sodium in the tissues. Swellings with excess fluid can be found all over the body, but most often these are the legs, arms and face.

During the first trimester, swelling is not noticeable. But closer to the third, most often they begin to bother you. Despite the fact that swelling does not always cause discomfort, it is worth thinking about how to avoid it at the very beginning of pregnancy.

Signs indicating the presence of edema include:

• Sudden weight gain. You can be sure that salts retain excess fluid in the body.
• Numbness in the fingers, as well as tingling. There is pain when walking.
• Sock marks on feet. If there are traces after removing the socks, then swelling is clearly present.
• Swelling of fingers. Shoes become too small.

Legs most often swell after prolonged exercise, such as walking. This brings a lot of unpleasant sensations to a pregnant woman. I have to buy new shoes, larger sizes. If legs are swollen by the end of the day, then this is the norm. And if the swelling has not gone away in the morning, then this is a reason to start worrying and consult a doctor.

Swelling may indicate the presence of late toxicosis, which is dangerous for the pregnant woman and the fetus. The child may be at risk of oxygen starvation. Mothers – swelling of internal organs and, accordingly, disruption of their functionality. Sometimes it is necessary to resort to termination of pregnancy. This is why it is so important to diagnose edema in a timely manner.

What to do if your legs swell during pregnancy

The first thing, of course, is to tell your doctor about your concerns. This is worth doing if:

• you often begin to feel very tired and weak;
• gained too many pounds;
• in addition to the legs, other parts of the body swell;
• swelling is present immediately after waking up;
• the problem is accompanied by increased blood pressure;
• the heartbeat quickens and shortness of breath appears;
• Protein was found in the urine of a pregnant woman.

Secondly, you need to try to get rid of swelling in ways that are safe for the pregnant woman.

How to relieve leg swelling during pregnancy

If your shoes have become too small for you and the ring is digging into your finger, go to the doctor immediately. Follow their prescribed treatment strictly. Self-medication can harm not only you, but your unborn child. But you should take preventive measures if you want to avoid problems:

• You need to significantly reduce the amount of salt you consume. Or stop adding salt to your dishes altogether. This is due to the fact that salt contains sodium, which retains water in the body, which leads to edema. There is no need to worry that your baby will not get enough of this substance. It is found in many products from the daily diet.
• Get into the habit of eating healthy. Fatty, salty, spicy foods can affect the condition of blood vessels, which, in turn, will lead to swelling. Avoid fried foods. It is better to boil or steam. Eat more fresh vegetables and fruits. Drink freshly squeezed juices. Do not overuse coffee and tea. Even green tea, which many consider healthier than black tea, contains twice as much caffeine. Therefore, the maximum daily dose is 2 cups.
• You need to drink enough water. Its quantity should reach 3 liters. Insufficient water consumption leads to problems with veins and blood clotting. If you have gestosis, then instead of water it is better to drink juices, fruit drinks, compotes, tea with milk.

• You need to give your legs a rest. This will relieve minor swelling. To do this, you need to put your feet on a hill. If you are lying down, then on a pillow. If you are sitting at a table, you can put your feet on a nearby chair or on the table.

If you notice swelling in your legs, even the slightest, consult a doctor. Don't risk your health and the health of your baby.