Swollen Feet, Causes and Treatment

Swollen feet during pregnancy is caused by extra fluid in the body and the pressure from growing uterus. Although this is not harmful to your baby but it can be quite uncomfortable. The swelling usually gets worse as a woman’s due date is near.

During Pregnancy, your body produces 50% more blood and bodily fluids most of which are created to meet the baby’s needs. These excess fluids also store up in tissues and joints which is necessary to allow the body to soften in other to prepare for birth.

Normal swelling up of feet is prevalent during the third trimester when standing for long periods and when excess caffeine or sodium is consumed. Water tends to gather in the lowest part of the body especially when the weather is hot. However, there are several reasons for abnormal swelling of feet during pregnancy. This is usually accompanied by symptoms such as swelling…

• in your face or puffiness around your eyes.
• accompanied by chest pains, back pains or difficulty in breathing.
• with persistent headache, vision changes and nausea.
• in one leg accompanied by any form of pain or tenderness.

Whatever the case may be, do not hesitate to seek medical help when you have swelling with any of the above-mentioned symptoms. These symptoms could be pre-eclampsia which can lead to serious complications if it’s not monitored or treated.

Are there Remedies for Swollen Feet during Pregnancy? Yes! Here are things to do to avoid and reduce swelling.

• Try to elevate your feet where possible using prop pillows & cushion. Also, master the art of wearing comfortable & supportive footwear.
• Avoid standing for extensive periods.
• Lie on your left side. Whether sleeping or resting, lying on your left side can help increase circulation in your body, which will help reduce swelling in your feet.
• Eating a healthful diet and being mindful of salt intake. Avoid processed and packaged foods, which contain high amounts of regular table salt, and opt for whole foods and unprocessed sea salt that contains all the minerals and nutrients that will help maintain optimal electrolyte balance and reduce or prevent swelling.
• Exercise for 30 minutes daily. Exercises like gentle yoga and foot exercises will keep your blood and fluids circulating throughout your body so they have less a tendency to settle in your feet.
• Eating more potassium-rich foods as they can help reduce water retention. Such food as bananas, avocados, Papayas, Spinach & Cabbage. These can be bought from grocery stores and supermarkets.

Finally, Pregnancy is a very weighty experience, both emotionally and physically. Your body is bound to undergo immense changes in the 9 months & beyond. It is therefore important to listen to these changes on your body and keep yourself as comfortable as possible.