Swollen feet are common during pregnancy, especially in the ankles and toes. Swollen feet during pregnancy can occur due to the accumulation of more fluid than normal. Although not dangerous, swelling of the feet makes some pregnant women feel uncomfortable and disturbed by their activities. Swelling can appear at any time, but this complaint usually occurs more often when pregnancy enters the second and third trimester.
Causes of Swollen Legs During Pregnancy
The body produces about 50 percent additional blood and fluid during pregnancy. This serves to meet the needs of the developing fetus in the womb. This phenomenon is natural, the cause of swollen feet during pregnancy is that the body of pregnant women naturally produces more blood and fluids. However, it should be noted that swollen legs during pregnancy can be one of the signs of preeclampsia.
In addition, there are several factors that cause swollen feet in pregnant women including due to hormonal changes, the habit of standing too long, excessive activity or exercise, hot weather, a diet low in potassium, consuming high salt or sodium to consuming too much high caffeine.
How to deal with swollen feet during pregnancy
Swollen legs during pregnancy do not hurt pregnant women. But it cannot be denied that these swollen feet make pregnant women uncomfortable and can interfere with activities. Here's how to deal with swollen feet during pregnancy that must be tried at home:
1. Reduce Sodium (Salt) Intake
Eating foods that are high in salt can cause the body to retain more water. To overcome swollen legs, pregnant women should reduce sodium or salt intake by avoiding canned or processed foods.
2. Reduce Caffeine Intake
Caffeinated drinks such as tea or coffee are tempting and pregnant women may be allowed to consume caffeine occasionally. However, if you consume excessive caffeine, it can cause swollen legs.
3. Drink More Water
Having swollen legs due to fluid buildup does not mean that pregnant women should drink less water. Even when the body detects dehydration, the body will retain more fluid to maintain body balance. For that reason, pregnant women are advised to fulfill body fluids at least 10 glasses every day.
4. Increase Potassium Consumption
Potassium is one of the important nutrients needed by pregnant women to maintain the balance of the amount of fluid in the body. Lack of potassium in the body can make swelling worse.
5. Walking Routine
Walking for about 5-10 minutes several times a day can help improve blood circulation. So that leg swelling can be reduced and can be done regularly during pregnancy.
6. Wear Comfortable Shoes
During pregnancy, pregnant women need comfortable things including footwear. Choose comfortable shoes, avoid using small shoes or tying your feet hard which can hinder the mother's blood circulation.
7. Doing Foot Massage
One way to deal with swollen feet during pregnancy is to massage the feet. Massaging the feet can encourage the circulation of fluids that accumulate in the feet so as to reduce swelling. In other words, massage can help fluid circulation more smoothly.
8. Avoid Standing Too Long
Standing for too long during pregnancy can cause pregnant women's legs to swell. Pregnant women can try to sit with their legs raised or the position of the legs higher than the heart when sitting. This position can help facilitate blood circulation so that it does not accumulate.
That is the cause and how to deal with swollen feet during pregnancy. If this method has been done but the swollen legs during pregnancy have not improved and are accompanied by other symptoms, then immediately consult a doctor to get an examination. (Aq/MKK)
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