4 Ways to Reduce Leg Swelling

If you are experiencing leg swelling, also called edema, you may find it uncomfortable and even painful at times. There are many reasons why you have swelling in the legs. Venous insufficiency, obesity, pregnancy, some anti-depressant medications, standing for too long, sitting for too long, an injury to the leg, an infection to the leg, and the normal hormone changes during a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Even though some of these may need medical attention, you can make some changes in your life that will help to ease the swelling. Here are some ways to do this:

• Reduce the amount of sodium that you consume since it attracts water to the body’s tissue, causing swelling. Decrease the amount of salt that you eat during meals. Possibly switch to a seasoning that is salt-free to add flavor to your dishes.

• The use of compression stockings is ideal for those who have leg swelling. The tapered effect of the stocking is tighter toward the foot and gradually becomes looser as you go up the leg. This type of stocking is designed to support veins and help in reducing the amount of swelling in the lower legs and feet.

• It is recommended that you increase your water intake. It seems counterproductive in that you want to reduce the amount of water your body holds, but by consuming more water, you will flush your system of toxins and any additional sodium.

• Get your body up and moving. If you are not able to get full workouts in, merely getting up and walking around will help reduce leg swelling. Try not to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time. Your blood is more likely to pool in your veins with inactivity. If sitting, get up and stretch your legs every hour to encourage blood movement. This is especially important during long flights on an airplane.

If your leg swelling becomes bothersome, please reach out to a vascular surgeon who is well versed in veins and conditions that affect the veins. Dr. Joseph Magnant at Vein Specialists is an expert in vein conditions and treatments. Call today or fill out a form online at WeKnowVeins.com