Having swollen feet and legs is the worst! You feel puffy, and it’s hard to feel comfortable in your skin. If you’re worried about your health, naturally it’s always advisable to meet with a trained medical professional to treat the cause.

Here we have just a few tips that might alleviate your symptoms quickly and effortlessly; so you never have to worry about puffed up feet again!

Edema is swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in your body’s tissues. It usually clears up on its own. However, it can be chronic for some people. But with our tips, you can give your body a helping hand, and be on your way to recover quicker than you can say ‘new socks.’

NOTE: If you notice any redness, blistering or swelling in the legs that is persistent or worsening, you will need to see your doctor immediately.

Find out the cause of the swelling.

You can’t solve the problem if you don’t know what is causing it. There are many different possible causes, such as; pregnancy, having a bad diet, PMS, or even heart, kidney or kidney problems.

One cause is a lack of exercise or color sitting still for too long. The solution is pretty obvious- if you are able, get up and moving a little more!

If you work at a desk, make sure you are getting up at least once every ten minutes, learn some stretches, and start a healthy habit, like yoga or going for walks after or before work.

Elevate your legs

Elevating your legs can help. Often the problem just comes down to a lack of blood flow.

When lifting your legs, try to keep them above your heart to aid blood flow, for around 20 minutes at a time. So put your feet up and relax!

Try to avoid for standing for long periods. Buying some prescriptions compressions stockings may also help – ask your doctor for more details.

Drink more

Odd as it sounds, drinking more can help decrease swelling. When the body is dehydrated, it holds onto the water it has. Of course, this makes water retention worse. So drinking more will aid in its reduction.

Try magnesium

A simple change in your diet may be all that’s needed – add some food rich in magnesium to your diet (such as broccoli, spinach, avocado, dark chocolate, and almonds) or try a supplement.

Try potassium

For some people, it can also be a lack of potassium that is causing this symptom. Try out eating a few high-potassium foods throughout your day and check the results (foods such as bananas, sweet potatoes,  pistachios, salmon, or chicken).

Drink herbal tea

Women can experience swollen feet during pregnancy or PMS. A simple remedy is Parsley tea! Simply buy some fresh parsley leaves from your local market and cut about a quarter cup into fine pieces.

Add the leaves to a teapot or other type of infuser and brew for around 5 minutes. Add honey to taste, and there you have it, your magical remedy for reducing swelling in the feet.

Parsley tea is fine for PMS, but should not be recommended during pregnancy as it can increase the risk of miscarriage

Change your diet

Eating a bad diet can easily lead to swelling, as well as a host of other problems. The worst part about eating a bad diet is that your energy levels can drop, meaning you get less done and feel less like doing all the fun things life has to offer.

To change your diet, an internal shift has to take place, in which you decide you have had enough of what you are currently eating and feel ready to make that change.

If you’ve been telling yourself the story that ‘it’s just who I am’ when eating poorly, then it will be very difficult to change that habit. Be open to the idea that you may, in fact, deep down, be healthy eating just waiting to get out!

Keep it simple and don’t stress too much. Diet is an easy one to know how to change – when you go shopping, avoid food that is processed and is a brown or beige colour, and go for the more natural foods that have grown from the ground and are usually much more colorful and vibrant. The more tasty, fresh and colorful the healthier you are eating (as a general principle).

Massage

A little massage of the feet can also be a great way of getting your circulation moving and is a lovely way to end your day. Try a self-massage video on youtube for ideas. Use aromatherapy oil and light candles for a real relaxing treat.

When it may be serious

If you are waking up and your swelling is worse, this symptom may be especially worrying. You’re best seeing your doctor. Your swelling could be linked to kidney or liver problems. Other symptoms include a swelling in the face and hands, as well as the feet.

If you are feeling short of breath, this could be because your heart is finding it a challenge to circulate the blood properly. This is also a cause for concern and time to ask a doctor’s advice.

In Conclusion

Most cases of edema are mild, and symptoms can safely be treated at home. Everyone is different and so finding the right balance for you may take a little time.

Naturally, it is best to check out any medical concerns, no matter how small – just to be on the safe side. Hopefully, these tips will aid your swift recovery and leave you feeling light on your feet once more.

 

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