Swelling (edema) in the feet, ankles, and hands during pregnancy is often considered normal, but this condition is not only related to excess fluid.
Medianews.az reports that the main reasons include an increase in blood volume in the body, hormonal changes, and the pressure of the growing uterus on blood circulation.
During pregnancy, blood volume increases, which is essential for the nutrition of the fetus. However, this increase causes fluid to leak outside the vessels and accumulate in the tissues. Swelling is especially more observed in the feet and ankles.
Hormones such as progesterone dilate the vessels and slow down blood circulation. At the same time, water and salt retention in the kidneys also increases.
The growth of the uterus leads to compression of the vessels in the lower extremities, which weakens blood flow.
Prolonged standing, little movement, and hot weather further increase edema. The worsening of swelling at the end of the day is related to these reasons.
In most cases, edema is considered physiological. However, cases accompanied by sudden, severe swelling of the face and around the eyes, high blood pressure, and headache can be a serious problem – a sign of pregnancy toxicosis.
Swelling in the feet and ankles that increases during the day and decreases with rest is considered normal. However, rapidly increasing and widespread edema cases must be under medical supervision.
Medianews.az