Tips to relieve fluid retention in pregnancy

One of the most typical discomfort of pregnancy, which is accentuated in the last months of pregnancy and especially during the summer, it is fluid retention.

It manifests as a feeling of heaviness, tiredness and swelling of legs and ankles, which typically rise at the end of the day.

We must not forget that two thirds of the weight gained in late pregnancy is liquid, so it is normal that the excess is distributed in the body.
Why does this occur?

Derives from a circulatory disorder due to the volume of the casing compresses the blood vessels that carry blood from the legs to the heart. This tension causes fluid to accumulate in tissues.

For its part, the hormonal changes produced in pregnancy and increased blood flow during pregnancy is also favors.

Women with heart and kidney disorders are themselves more likely to experience fluid retention in pregnancy, stimulated by the excess sodium and water shortage.
Relief

There are many tips that we can continue to relieve fluid retention, such as:

legs

* Relaxing with legs elevated. We must not sit back and put the legs on a small table since this further compressed blood vessels. We must lie down and elevate your legs at least 15 centimeters above the rest of the body lying on the floor (or bed) and place your legs resting on a wall. About 20 minutes remain in this position works wonders to relieve the swelling of legs.

* Remove the salt in our diet. We must avoid salting food and eliminate excessively salty foods such as potato chips and bag of snacks. The canned food should also be eliminated because they contain a large amount of salt and sodium. These chemicals cause your body tends to accumulate liquid no longer required.

* On the other hand, prefer foods prepared at home and control the process of preparing each dish. Consume fresh fruits and vegetables containing high doses of potassium to regulate our body.

* Drink plenty of water. Contrary to what might be believed, consume lots of water helps cleanse the body of toxins. We can also use fresh juices, fruit smoothies and vegetable soups or cold tea. Good hydration will help to alleviate the heat and reduce swelling of the body.

legs

* Cold showers. In the summer we will be great for drinks, but also spend the shower with cold water by giving your legs a gentle massage works miracles, as well as toning. Unzip the tension of the blood vessels by promoting blood circulation and reducing swelling.

* Massage with fresh cream. Massaging the feet and legs (or ask someone to do) is also a good remedy. Lymphatic drainage is performed by a gentle massage from feet to thighs eliminating stagnant tissues. To do this you can choose a refreshing gel-based eucalyptus and rosemary (if you keep stored in the refrigerator, the better).

* Practice moderate exercise. We have commented many times about the huge benefits of exercise during pregnancy. Swim, do a daily walk or yoga practices are highly recommended to encourage circulation and relieve fluid retention.

* Sleeping on the side, preferably on the left side. Sleep causes compression of the vena cava and impedes blood flow to the legs to the heart.

With these simple tips will minimize fluid retention and relieve the discomfort it causes. Either way, you should consult with your doctor because if the detention is excessive, ie it extends to the face, neck and hands, could be a sign of preclampsia, a serious disease characterized by increased tension in pregnancy.