Seventy five per cent of women experience some swelling of the feet or legs during their pregnancy.
The swelling is called oedema and occurs because women tend to retain more water when they are pregnant. Symptoms can begin at any time, but get worse in the third trimester.
Swollen legs are not really painful, but they are uncomfortable and can make some women feel self conscious about their appearance.
Changes in the chemistry of the blood encourage the body to retain more water than usual. Also, the growing baby puts pressure on the veins in the legs, which impairs the return of the blood flow to the heart and causes extra fluid to build up in that area.
However, secondary causes include standing upright for long periods of time, excessive heat and excess intake of caffeine.
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Homeopathy - talk to your homeopath about which homeopathic remedies might be able to help. ∏ Ω
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Arnicare Arnica Cooling Gel, a blend of the homeopathic remedy arnica, grapefruit and menthol can also really help soothe heavy tired legs during pregnancy.
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Acupuncture is a very beneficial form of treatment for many symptoms of pregnancy, including swollen, aching legs.
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Body balance work such as yoga and shiatsu can help with leg pain and generally make women feel much more comfortable and balanced throughout their pregnancy.
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Reiki is a gentle, relaxing way to balance the energy flow of the body helping relieve swelling and pain in the legs and feet.
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Drink plenty of water.
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Exercise regularly, especially by walking, swimming, or riding an exercise bike. Or try a water aerobics class — immersion in water may temporarily help reduce swelling, particularly if the water level is up near your shoulders.
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Eat well, and avoid junk food
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Stretch your legs often while sitting and put your feet up often. Also, don’t cross your legs.
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Take regular breaks from sitting or standing. A short walk every so often will help keep your blood circulating.
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Wear comfortable shoes that stretch to accommodate the swelling.
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Don't wear socks or stockings that have tight bands around the ankles or calves.
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Try waist-high maternity support stockings. Put them on before you get out of bed in the morning so blood doesn't have a chance to pool around your ankles.
Although mild foot and leg swelling during pregnancy is normal, call or see your doctor promptly if you have:
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Severe or sudden swelling. This could be a sign of a serious condition called preeclampsia. Other signs and symptoms of preeclampsia include severe headaches, blurred vision and dizziness.
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Swelling in only one leg, especially if you have pain or tenderness in your calf or thigh.
∏ On no account should prescribed medication be discontinued, except under a doctor’s supervision.
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Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a doctor before taking any medicines.
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