Edema is a term used in reference to the swelling of the feet that normally occurs during the last months of pregnancy a woman. The growing uterus puts pressure on blood vessels in the legs and pelvis, which in turn causes blood flow to slow down, allowing blood to accumulate in the lower extremities.
There are so many changes the body undergoes during pregnancy that it becomes easy to ignore the changes in the feet. During pregnancy, the body releases hormones that allow the ligaments to relax in the birth canal. Ligaments in the feet also relax, causing the foot to extend and develop. Many complain of an increase in shoe size by one or two sizes. In most cases, the flattening and widening of the foot is benign and no problems result.
Water retention is also common during pregnancy, which can increase the swelling of the foot can sometimes turn purple or blue.
The effects of pregnancy on feet
Many women suffer from foot problems during pregnancy, because of the extra pressure from the legs, and weight gain. The most common foot conditions among pregnant women are as follows:
* Over pronation / flat feet.
* Edema.
Leg cramps *.
* Varicose veins.
Water retention is also common during pregnancy, which can increase the swelling of the foot can sometimes turn purple or blue.
The effects of pregnancy on feet
Many women suffer from foot problems during pregnancy, because of the extra pressure from the legs, and weight gain. The most common foot conditions among pregnant women are as follows:
* Over pronation / flat feet.
* Edema.
Leg cramps *.
* Varicose veins.
Prevention and treatment:
* Try to elevate your feet as often as possible.
* Do not walk barefoot: Wear sturdy shoes, which has a rigid sole and bends only where the foot bends (on foot).
* Wear shoes and socks that are broad and do not constrict your feet.
* Dry your feet and between toes after showers: Increased moisture between your toes can lead to skin damage and eventual ulceration.
* Keep your feet measured regularly during pregnancy, the size of the account changes.
* If you're sitting or driving for long periods of time, be sure to stand and walk from time to time with the traffic.
* Exercise regularly to improve blood circulation.
* Keep your body hydrated by drinking 8 glasses of water a day - it is curious that prevents water retention.
* Avoid foods high in salt, which tends to promote the accumulation of fluid.
* Try to elevate your feet as often as possible.
* Do not walk barefoot: Wear sturdy shoes, which has a rigid sole and bends only where the foot bends (on foot).
* Wear shoes and socks that are broad and do not constrict your feet.
* Dry your feet and between toes after showers: Increased moisture between your toes can lead to skin damage and eventual ulceration.
* Keep your feet measured regularly during pregnancy, the size of the account changes.
* If you're sitting or driving for long periods of time, be sure to stand and walk from time to time with the traffic.
* Exercise regularly to improve blood circulation.
* Keep your body hydrated by drinking 8 glasses of water a day - it is curious that prevents water retention.
* Avoid foods high in salt, which tends to promote the accumulation of fluid.
The swelling is generally the same in both feet. If one foot seems worse than the other may be the sign of a vascular problem and should consult your doctor as soon as possible.
