How much swelling in hands and feet is too much during pregnancy? Swelling in the hands and feet, known as edema, is common during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. It’s usually caused by the body retaining more fluid and the pressure from the growing uterus on veins, slowing blood circulation.
Disclosure: This is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions about swelling during pregnancy consult your doctor immediately.
However, severe or sudden swelling can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as preeclampsia. Here are some guidelines on when swelling might be too much and require medical attention:
Normal Swelling
What is normal when it comes to swelling during pregnancy?
- Mild to moderate swelling in the feet and ankles, especially after standing for a long time or in the heat, is normal.
- Swelling can also occur in the hands, causing rings to feel tighter.
- Swelling tends to increase as the day progresses but often reduces with rest or elevating the feet.
When to Be Concerned
If you experience any of the following, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately:
- Sudden swelling in the face, around the eyes, hands, or feet, especially if it’s rapid.
- Swelling that does not subside with rest, elevating the feet, or lying down.
- Swelling accompanied by other symptoms such as:
- Severe headaches
- Blurred vision or seeing spots
- Pain in the upper abdomen or right side
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sudden weight gain (more than 2 pounds in a week)
These could be warning signs of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs like the liver and kidneys. It’s essential to get this checked as early as possible to ensure the health of both mother and baby.
Tips for Reducing Swelling
Try these tips to help reduce your swelling during pregnancy.
- Elevate your feet when sitting.
- Wear comfortable shoes and avoid standing for long periods.
- Stay hydrated, which helps reduce fluid retention.
- Avoid excess salt, which can worsen swelling.
- Wear compression stockings (aff link) if recommended by your healthcare provider.
Self-Care for Managing Swelling
It is important to take care of yourself when you start experiencing swelling during pregnancy. Try these tips to help keep your swelling to a minimum if possible.
- Stay Active: Regular, moderate exercise such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can improve circulation and help reduce swelling.
- Rest and Elevate: If your legs or feet are swollen, try to elevate them above heart level for 15–30 minutes a few times a day. This helps drain excess fluid.
- Sleep on Your Side: Preferably the left side, as this can relieve pressure on the vena cava (a major vein that returns blood to the heart) and improve blood flow.
- Avoid Tight Clothing: Wearing loose, comfortable clothing, especially around the waist, wrists, and ankles, can help reduce pressure and swelling.
- Limit Time in Hot Environments: Heat can worsen swelling, so stay cool and avoid prolonged exposure to hot or humid conditions.
- Foot Soaks or Cold Compresses: Soaking feet in cool water or using a cold compress on swollen areas can provide relief.
Long-Term Outlook
In most cases, swelling in pregnancy is temporary and subsides after delivery. Your body will gradually eliminate the extra fluid within a few days to a few weeks postpartum. However, if you experience prolonged or worsening swelling after birth, especially if it is accompanied by pain or shortness of breath, seek medical attention, as it could be a sign of postpartum complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or heart issues.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
In rare cases, excessive swelling could signal other health issues aside from preeclampsia, such as:
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the leg, causing swelling in just one leg, pain, and redness.
- Heart Issues: If you experience swelling along with symptoms like chest pain or difficulty breathing, it could indicate heart complications.
- HELLP Syndrome: A serious form of preeclampsia that involves liver damage. Swelling can occur alongside symptoms like upper abdominal pain, nausea, and extreme fatigue.
While mild swelling is generally harmless and part of a healthy pregnancy, it’s crucial to be aware of your body’s changes and any accompanying symptoms. Early intervention is key in addressing any complications like preeclampsia, so don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if something feels off.
If you’re monitoring swelling regularly, document any sudden changes and discuss them with your doctor.
