Pregnancy Swelling

Prior to pregnancy, most women are aware of the swelling that is accompanied with pregnancy. It’s typical for pregnant women to develop mild swelling in the face, hands, ankles, or feet at some point during pregnancy. Especially as the due date rolls around, you may even begin to notice an increase in the amount of swelling you see.

However, if you have rapid, significant weight gain or your hands or feet suddenly get abnormally puffy and swollen, call your doctor as soon as possible. This could be a sign of high blood pressure called preeclampsia or toxemia.

Additionally, sometimes excessive swelling may cause carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy. If you are experiencing pain, numbness, or pins and needles in your hands (especially at night time and through your thumb, index, middle and halfway up your ring finger), relief can come from shaking you hand out or elevating your arms and hands on pillows while you sleep. Also, speak to your doctor or health care professional about carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy if you are experiencing these symptoms.

To keep swelling to a minimum:

• Drink 8 to 10 eight-ounce glasses of fluids (water is best) daily.
• Avoid caffeine.
• Try to avoid foods with high sodium content.
• Rest when you can with keeping your feet elevated.
• Ask your doctor about using support hose.