Swollen Ankles

Common pregnancy complaint

Swollen ankles and feet is a common experience toward the end of your pregnancy.

Hot, summer weather can aggravate this annoying condition.

But not to worry! There are things you can do to minimize the uncomfortable swelling.

And don’t forget that after the baby is born you will get your slim ankles back again.

During pregnancy your overall blood volume increases by about 40 %.

The increased fluid sometimes escapes from the blood vessels into the tissues and results in extra swelling.

Feet and lower legs are mostly affected by this, due to gravity.

• Avoid standing for prolonged periods of time.

• Elevate your legs above your heart several times per day.

• Have a bath, but water should be cooler than your body temperature. The water pressure will force the fluid from your tissues, back to your veins.

• Walk or swim on regular basis.

• Limit your salt intake to the necessary minimum as too much salt will cause your body to retain fluids.

• If you sit a lot, do not cross your legs and move your legs whenever possible. You can perform ankle circles a few times in an hour.

• Drink at least 8 cups of water a day. When your body is dehydrated, it will retain more water causing the swelling.

• Make sure you provide your body with enough protein. Fish, meat, tofu and beans are all good sources.

What about medications to relieve swollen ankles?

Water pills or diuretics are not safe to use during pregnancy as they can cause serious electrolyte imbalance.

Warning

If you notice your swelling spreading to your eyelids, face, fingers, hands or other parts of your body make sure you consult your medical practitioner right away!

Usually the swelling that is serious is accompanied by high blood pressure, headaches and blurry vision and could be a sign of Preeclampsia which is a condition that requires medical attention.

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