When should I be worried about swelling during pregnancy?

If swelling affects only one leg and is accompanied by pain, redness, or warmth, a blood clot could be a concern, and you should call your doctor. If you experience sudden or gradually worsening swelling in your face, around your eyes, or in your hands accompanied by high blood pressure, call your doctor immediately.

Is it bad to have swollen hands and feet during pregnancy?

Swelling (aka “edema”) in your feet, ankles, and hands throughout pregnancy and especially as your pregnancy nears the end is very common and normal. During pregnancy, your body produces 50\% more blood and bodily fluids, most of which is created to meet baby’s needs.

Why do fingers and feet swell during pregnancy?

During pregnancy your body also holds more fluid than usual. This extra fluid can collect in your legs and ankles, which can cause swelling. It can also sometimes collect in your hands and fingers. This can cause them to swell.

How can I reduce swelling in my hands and feet during pregnancy?

How to get relief

1. Reduce sodium intake. One way to reduce swelling during pregnancy is to limit your sodium (or salt) intake.
2. Increase potassium intake.
3. Reduce caffeine intake.
4. Drink more water.
5. Elevate your feet and rest.
6. Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
7. Stay cool.
8. Wear waist-high compression stockings.

Does walking reduce pregnancy swelling?

Regular and simple exercise like swimming and walking can help with fluid retention. Standing in water for 20 minutes will decrease swelling. Ditch your heels for now and wear comfortable shoes, and don’t stand on your feet for long periods of time without moving.

When do fingers start swelling in pregnancy?

Swelling may be experienced at any point during pregnancy, but it tends to be noticed around the fifth month and can increase while you are in the third trimester.

Is walking good for swollen feet during pregnancy?

Physical activity and low-impact exercise like walking can definitely help reduce swelling in your feet during pregnancy.

How can I reduce water retention in my hands during pregnancy?

It may sound counterintuitive, but drinking a lot of water can help reduce fluid retention by flushing out your system. Some women also find it helpful to swim or stand in water. The water pressure outside your body might help compress the tissue inside your body. This can help flush out the trapped fluids.

When does edema start in pregnancy?

Edema affects about three quarters of pregnant women. It can start around week 22 to week 27 of pregnancy, and will likely stick around until you give birth (on the bright side, pretty soon you won’t be able to see anything below your belly anyway).

When to worry about swelling during pregnancy?

If swelling increases very rapidly or if your face is puffy, call your doctor; it may be a sign that your blood pressure is too high or that you are developing preeclampsia. Swelling is a common side effect of pregnancy as your due date gets closer.

How to reduce swelling during pregnancy?

Avoid standing for extended periods. Whenever possible, sit and relax (or even lay down), with your legs elevated.

What causes severe swelling during pregnancy?

In addition to the natural pressure which causes swelling during pregnancy, the process of pushing which is necessary for a vaginal birth will send excess amounts of blood and other fluids into the extremities. This can cause swelling in hands, feet, legs or even the face.

What is normal swelling in pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the body produces approximately 50\% more blood and body fluids to meet the needs of the developing baby. Swelling is a normal part of pregnancy that is caused by this additional blood and fluid. Normal swelling, which is also called edema, is experienced in the hands, face, legs, ankles, and feet.