Swelling in feet, ankles and legs are very common and have a tendency to happen in women who are pregnant and people who spend a lot of time on their feet. Being overweight, leg infections, long rides on the airplane which cause inactivity for long periods are some of the factors that cause swelling.
The symptoms of swelling can range from a mild discomfort to painful and possibility causes limited mobility when the swelling is severe. Effects of gravity can make the swelling worse.
Here are some ways that can be done to reduce swelling on the legs, feet, ankles and knee, without the use of drugs.
- Try to exercise your legs whenever possible. Walking and stretching the legs can help to pump the fluid from legs back up to the heart.
- When travelling on a plane for an extended period, try to get up and walk a bit or stand.
- If you are overweight, try to lose some weight to reduce the force on the lower limbs.
- Try raising your legs above the heart with a foot rest when lying down.
- Reduce the amount of salt in the diet.
Please take note that if swelling continues to persists for an extended period of time and if it interferes with your quality of life, then it is important to see a physician.
