Swollen Ankles During Pregnancy

A common and extremely frustrating woe of many pregnant women, is the occurrence of swollen ankles during pregnancy. As the body accumulates 50% more blood and body fluids, to meet the needs of the developing baby, expectant mothers observe mild swelling in their ankles and feet. With the continuation of pregnancy, these may also be caused by the pressure on pelvic veins. The swelling may range from being a mere annoyance to being downright painful. Here is a look at the reasons for swollen ankles due to pregnancy and how to deal with them.

Reasons for Swollen Ankles: What Causes Swollen Ankles?

While there are other causes of swollen ankles, the occurrence of edema (swollen ankles) during pregnancy, is the result of excessive fluid retention in the the spaces between the cells. The extra fluid which accounts for 25% of the weight gain during pregnancy, also helps prepare the pelvic joints and tissues to open up, so as to allow the baby to be born. As the uterus starts exerting pressure on the veins that lead to your legs, your circulation slows down and blood pools into your legs, leading to an inflation in your ankles. Apart from that, it may also result in the swelling up of the feet, hands, legs, and face. Usually with the change in hours or the weather, pregnant women observe an increase and decrease in the swelling. Here are a list of factors which regulate the swelling in the body:

• Standing for long periods of time.
• Long days of activity.
• Diet low in potassium.
• High level of caffeine consumption.
• High level of sodium intake.

While a minor swelling is considered a normal sign of pregnancy, a severe swelling of the hands and face could be the result of pre - eclampsia. A severe disorder affecting pregnant women, pre-eclampsia is a condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy and protein in the urine. It usually occurs during the final trimester and symptoms are monitored and looked for, at every checkup, during the danger period.

Symptoms of Swollen Ankles

The usual symptoms of swollen ankles is, the bloating up of the ankles and the feet. Usually the skin around the area appears to be tight and shiny. In certain conditions the swollen ankles and knees appear purplish in color.

Swollen Ankles Treatment

Treating painful swollen ankles can be easy with these easy to follow tips.

One of the fastest way to reduce swelling in the ankles is by resting your feet while keeping it in an elevated position, preferably above the waist level. While at home, try to lie on your left side when possible. Also when you are sitting, try not to bend your knees at a sharp angle, as that can interfere with the body's circulation and can make fluid accumulate in your ankles.

Avoid standing or sitting for long period of time, at a stretch. Take breaks as often as you can, by going on a five minute stroll, at least once every hour. Regular exercising and yoga during pregnancy can be a reliever. However remember not to overdo it, as long walks or a long day on your feet will definitely make swollen ankles worse.

Go shoe shopping and get yourself a pair of comfy shoes or some soft slippers. As much as you love those sexy black slingbacks, believe me they are not going to fit your bloated feet.

You could try wearing support stockings before you go to bed. This will keep the swelling at bay, by not allowing the blood to pool at the legs. Since the goal is to let blood and fluids flow as freely as possible, avoid the tight elastic - top socks or stockings.

Drink plenty of water, at least 8 to 10 glasses per day, to reduce the swelling. I know it sounds weird but water allows the body to flush off the excess sodium and other waste products, thus minimizing the swelling. Also remember to restrict the sodium intake in your diet.

You can also massage your feet and ankles to reduce the swelling. Remember, that if swelling persists for more than a day at a time, call your practitioner or a midwife to ensure that it is not pre-eclampsia which is causing it.