my version of water retention~

Hi people!!

I was so happy that through out my pregnancy I did not encounter any water retention or also known as feet swollen. But now, as I’m approaching the end of my pregnancy, I could feel that my feet are not in the usual shape. Water retention or sometimes called edema, refers to an excessive build up of fluid in the circulatory system, body tissues, or cavities in the body.

Being me, who is basically worried about everything; had been doing my research on this, just to make sure that it is normal for pregnant lady to have it. From my reading, the causes of water retention are as below:

•     Summertime heat
•     Standing for long periods of time
•     "Long" days of activity
•     Diet low in potassium
•     High level of caffeine consumption
•     High level of sodium intake

I just can’t wait to show these feet to my doctor and hear what she has to say about it. From the article that I’m reading, it is also stated that “However, if you have sudden or severe swelling in your face, hands or feet, call your doctor or midwife. It could be a sign of pre-eclampsia, which can be a serious condition for you and your baby”. Now you can see that I’m worried with a reason. BTW I hope that I’m just a bit crazy to be thinking too much bout it. Here are some tips on how to avoid water retention during pregnancy:

•     Avoid standing for long periods
•     Minimize outdoor time when it is hot
•     Rest with your feet elevated
•     Wear comfortable shoes, avoiding high heels if possible
•     Wear supportive tights or stockings
•     Avoid clothes that are tight around your wrists or ankles
•     Rest or swim in a pool
•     Use cold compresses on swollen areas
•     Drink water, which helps flush the body and reduce water retention
•     Minimize sodium (salt) intake and avoid adding additional salt to meals

I hardly take a look at my own feet, but I also don't remember it being this big!!!

p/s: Have a great weekend people!! As for me, I'll have my curriculum class tomorrow which is to go for the monthly medical check up. (Its not a monthly thing anymore, should i say a weekly checkup)