Swelling During Pregnancy

During pregnancy you expect your stomach to grow but why my nose? It seems like every part of my body is swollen and my feet look like those of a cave man. Are you wondering why everything seems to expand while you are pregnant? It's called edema. Your body increases blood and fluids to prepare your joints and bones for delivery.Here are some tips to help relieve the discomfort of some swelling.

1. Drink enough water.

Not only does your baby need enough water to live in your uterus but you need water to eliminate waste from your body. Drinking plenty of water helps wash away toxins and excess salt which adds to swelling. You should drink about ten bottle of water a day while pregnant.

2. Eat foods that contain potassium.

Eating food high in potassium helps level out and control water levels in your body. This will help you feel more comfortable and feel less swollen.

3. Control your salt intake.

If you add salt to your food, this plays a big factor in swelling. You do not want high blood pressure while pregnant because it can cause pregnancy risks. Many moms with high blood pressure do have safe healthy pregnancies but sever high blood pressure can cause death to both mom and baby.

4. Pamper your feet.

You should try to avoid standing for long periods of time and elevate your feet any chance you get. Make sure you wear very comfortable shoes because with the extra weight you will put on, your feet will be painful and swell. You may even want to but shoes 2 sizes larger than you usually would.

5. Wear comfy clothing.

Moms I know you want to feel sexy but please do not squeeze into those tight clothes. Wearing tight fitted clothing can increase swelling and will make you feel very uncomfortable. There are fashionable maternity outfits you can buy and they will make you feel so much more relived than when wearing tight clothes.

6. Limit caffeine intake.

Caffeine decreases water levels in your body and can cause dehydration. If you do not have enough water it can cause cramps, and will unbalance water levels. Your body will begin to swell and you will not feel well if you are dehydrated.

7. Apply cold compresses.

To help decrease swelling you may want to apply cold compresses. Wrap ice or a cold pack in a towel and apply about 3 times a day for about 15 min each time. Relaxing in a cool pool may also help with swelling and relieve pressure.

8. Exercise regularly.

If you perform light exercise every day, it helps increase blood flow and circulation. Increasing circulation helps keep your body from collecting blood in your extremities and increase swelling.

Of course some swelling is normal during pregnancy but if you have sudden swelling or swelling of one leg and not the other, seek medical help right away.

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