Swollen Feet, Causes and Treatment

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.

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13 thoughts on “Swollen Feet, Causes and Treatment”

    Viano
    May 19, 2020 at 6:30 pm

    I think soft feet massages will help too. Just saying tho. Nice.

      Uche
      May 25, 2020 at 2:38 pm

      I now understand why my feet get swollen each time am pregnant and this makes me look ugly 😂. Informative write-up, a masterpiece thanks for sharing.

    Chineme
    May 25, 2020 at 2:43 pm

    I have always wondered how it will be if I had a swollen feet when pregnant.

    I am so using the remedies when that time comes

    Akingbolu Ayodeji
    May 25, 2020 at 3:21 pm

    This is what the prenant women need to know because some of them still dont know how to take care of their swollen feet.

    Adebayo Olalekan
    May 25, 2020 at 3:41 pm

    This is very helpful and educative.
    My wife will definitely start doing these.

    Blessing
    May 25, 2020 at 3:54 pm

    I experienced swollen feet during pregnancy and honestly speaking it can be so uncomfortable. Will apply these remedies in subsequent pregnancies.

    Sara
    May 25, 2020 at 4:55 pm

    This is really educative I remember when my mum was pregnant and I will always ask her why her feet is always swollen and she always look puffy but now I know the causes and also the remedies for swollen feet. This i s really nice I love it.

    Daniel Osei
    May 25, 2020 at 5:19 pm

    Minimize outdoor time when it is hot,avoid clothes that are tight around your wrists or ankles. I believe that this will also help in reducing the swell on the body

    Ojo Oladapo
    May 25, 2020 at 5:24 pm

    Well, I believe if any pregnant woman that has this issue can follow the prescribed procedure, everything would be fine.

    Ejenobo Justina
    May 25, 2020 at 6:09 pm

    So many do’s and don’ts for pregnancy! Its getting scary!! These tips seem reasonable and helpful tho,.. thanks so much

    Ejenobo Jonathan
    May 25, 2020 at 6:17 pm

    I wonder how pregnant people look with swollen feet. Really funny

    charles
    May 25, 2020 at 6:17 pm

    I think that is a painful experience for pregnant woman, but what is more painful is child labour

      Adeyemi Nurudeen
      May 25, 2020 at 6:58 pm

      All the above points are well highlighted.God Bless the writer.If all pregnant women can duely follow this,it will be so helpful

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