Edema is the medical term used to
describe a condition which causes wwollen feet and legs. Edema is caused by
fluid retention of the body cells and atlthough typically affects the feet,
ankles and lower legs, can also impact any area of the body, causing systemic
symptoms.
What causes Edema and thereby swollen feet?
The condition known as Edema can be a signal that there is a serious underlying
condition associated with your kidneys, heart, liver, or blood vessels. If this
is a persistent situation with you, do consult your physician.
Other common causes:
- Eating a poor diet high in salt and carbohydrates
- Abusing laxatives
- Abusing diuretics
- Abusing drugs
- Taking birth control or hormone replacement therapy pills
- Pregnancy and PMS
- Sodium retention
- Varicose veins and history of phlebitis
- Allergic reactions
- Neuromuscular disorders
- Trauma
What are the symptoms of Edema?
First you will notice your feet and legs will appear swollen gradually
throughout the day. Then after a period of days or weeks, the swelling will set
in first thing in the morning and continue to worsen throughout the day.
You will notice after a longer time when you press on the swollen area for a
few seconds, an indentation remains after you release the pressure.
Other symptoms will develop:
- High blood pressure
- Headaches
- Increased urination
- Palpitations
- Swollen hands and/or wrists as well as your swollen feet
- Puffy eyes
- Weight gain
How can I relieve the discomfort?
First and foremost you must elevate your feet and legs above the level of your
heart. Sitting in a reclining chair in front of the TV is a great way to
elevate your legs.
Some products that can assist you in dealing with Edema are:
- Leg wedges to elevate the feet while sleeping
- Support socks and stockings
Techniques to decrease swelling:
- Increase muscle activity with walking
- Avoid standing in place for long period of time
- Avoid sitting with the feet dependent
- Limit salt intake
- Do not abuse diuretics
- Do not abuse laxatives
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid contraceptive pills and hrt medications if possible
- Compression pump helps fluid return to blood vessels
If the edema persists or continues to worsen, please consult your physician.
Information on foot pain, leg and
lower body health conditions taken from
FootSmart.com and provided by
The Podiatry Institute, dedicated to advancing the standard of care in
podiatric medicine and its effects on muscoskeletal health.
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Leg Elevator
