Entering a phase where you are going to bring a little life in this world is one of the best feelings. I still remember the happy nine months when my bump was growing daily. In the early pregnancy, you may have that scintillating glow and you shine inside out with rosy skin and long lustrous waves. Then one day, the wind takes away the prego beauty sails and you look extremely puffy. That’s what you call pregnancy swelling.
Relieving it is as swelling is completely normal part and many mamas experience it. But do you know why? Let’s have a look at the causes of swelling during pregnancy and some tips to beat the discomfort. And a note of caution: there are many situations in which this swelling is not normal. We are also gonna explain you when you should be concerned about this.
Causes of Swelling In Pregnancy
During those nine months, your body needs pretty miraculous things and one of them is the sheer fluid. While pregnant your body’s water volume increases by almost 8 litres and that’s pretty huge. Your plasma volume also leaps by 30 to 50% which means your total blood volume increases as well. Some of the water helps your cells to function and the rest accumulates outside of cells to enhance oxygen delivery, waste and control flow.
As your baby grows and gets closer to birth, your blood volume reaches its peak during the third trimester. That’s when your swelling increases the most. Along with this, the massive increase in body fluids is due to the increasing sodium levels in body. A slightest rise in sodium causes you to feel puffy.
Symptoms of Swelling
It’s completely normal to find your ring not fitting right or your shoe size increasing. A gradual swelling in fingers, ankles, legs and feet throughout pregnancy is a part of the journey. Your swelling may tend to increase or worsen by the end of the day. A hot day or a lot of standing is also a reason of swelling.
Tips to relieve swelling during pregnancy
If you are experiencing a plenty of puffiness, here are some tips to ease the discomfort.
● Elevate your feet at a level above your heart, as this helps the fluid circulate back to your heart.
● Drink plenty of water to flush extra fluids and sodium out of your body.
● Avoid being in a hot or humid weather.
● Avoid standing for longer period of time.
● Wear breathable and comfortable shoes.
● Eat bananas, avocados and potassium rich food to flush out extra sodium.
● Limit salty foods. like fast food, pizzas and chips
Know what’s not normal
If you are concerned about the symptoms related to swelling here are the instances when you should reach out to your OB-GYN.
The two most concerning conditions during pregnancy that can cause swelling are preclampsia and blood clot.
Preclampsia occurs in only 5% of the pregnant women after 20th week. Here are the symptoms:.
● High blood pressure
● Protein in urine
● Edema
● Abnormal liver and low platelet count.
● Persistent headache and vision changes.
● Abdominal pain and sudden weight gain.
If you have any of the above symptoms you should visit your OB-GYN asap.
Blood Clots occur in leg, thigh or pelvis areas called deep venous thrombosis. It is a serious condition asking for immediate treatment. Watch out the signs along with the swelling like:
● Swelling affecting only one leg
● Pain in the swollen area
● Tenderness
● Redness
● Warmth to touch
If you experience sudden or gradual increase in swelling around your face, eyes, hands along with high blood pressure call your doctor immediately.
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