People who at least once had to feel the "charms" of such a phenomenon as swelling of the legs clearly understand the suffering of the heroine of one popular advertising video, whose slender legs were wrapped in chains with pood weights. Indeed, a bursting burning sensation and excruciatingly painful heaviness are typical sensations experienced by a person prone to edema.
It should be noted that it was not for nothing that the central figure in the video was a woman. According to statistics, it is the representatives of the beautiful half of humanity and fat people who most often suffer from swelling of the legs. Experts define edema as an increased accumulation of fluid in the extracellular space of the human body. Swelling of the legs is not only felt, but also determined visually: the legs are filled with liquid, swell along the entire length or in certain zones: the volume of the ankle, lower leg, and thighs increases.
Causes of edema
Obviously, a person who has noted the systematic appearance of fatigue and swelling of the legs will try to eliminate the annoying problem as quickly as possible. Indeed, external signals indicating internal disturbances in the body's work cannot be ignored. If you notice the first symptoms, it is advisable not to postpone a visit to a competent specialized specialist who can accurately determine the true cause of the appearance of edema. The choice of effective methods and the effectiveness of treatment depends on how correct the diagnosis will be.
Among a considerable number of more or less serious causes of leg swelling, the most common factors can be noted:
excess weight;
sedentary work (prolonged standing, in a static position);
excessive physical activity;
lymph congestion, muscle weakness;
improperly selected shoes ;
pregnancy;
flat feet;
varicose veins;
cardiovascular diseases;
disturbances in the work of the kidneys.
Each individual case assumes an individual approach and a detailed study of the root causes that provoked the appearance of edema. Sometimes, to eliminate the problem, it is necessary to medicate an individual organ or an entire system of the body. In other cases, it is enough to give the body rest, make adjustments to the diet, and properly organize physical activity. Next, let's talk about preventive measures to help solve this problem.
Legs swell. What should I do?
Eliminate situational factors, such as tight, uncomfortable, heeled shoes, or even stockings (socks) with an elastic band that pulls the leg too tight. The optimal shoe option is a model with a comfortable last, a fairly spacious toe cap that does not pinch the limb. Too high unstable heel provokes congestion. Do not ignore the advice of experts who recommend taking replacement shoes for work, not only for sanitary and hygienic reasons. Changing one pair to another provides a different foot position, different load distribution.
Take care of your feet. Legs, like other organs, require care. If your work is associated with constant physical exertion, belongs to the category of sedentary, you should take care of procedures that relieve fatigue. First of all, this is lymphatic drainage massage or self-massage, cold compresses or ice wrapping, as well as a very simple but effective way - baths. A good tonic effect is found when using contrast baths. Sea salt added to the water, a decoction of oak bark and willow branches, wood lice, horse chestnut or horsetail very quickly relieves fatigue. After a 15-minute bath, apply a special cream or prophylactic ointment, which includes rutin and heparin.
Do simple exercises throughout the day to prevent lymph congestion. Not all modern offices have organized conditions for industrial gymnastics, but simple preventive actions can be performed unnoticed by others. When sedentary work, you need to get up as often as possible, walking or even simple shifting from foot to foot and from heel to toe will provide blood and lymph circulation. 10 on-site toe jumps can be done in the sanitary room. Sitting on a chair, raise your legs - make circular movements of your feet to the left - to the right, bend and sharply straighten your toes with effort.
Analyze your diet. It is possible that spicy or salty foods predominate in the diet, which helps to retain water in the body. Every day, an adult needs to drink at least 1.5 liters of clean water, but remember that this should be done in small portions and preferably until 6-7 pm. An excellent effect in the fight against edema is demonstrated by herbal teas and decoctions from plants that have a diuretic effect: horsetail, linden blossom, parsley root, astragalus, birch buds, ashberry, red and black currants.
Lead a healthy lifestyle. Quitting smoking and alcohol, active physical education and sports, controlling your weight, proper organization of rest and night sleep with a small roller under your feet minimizes the risk of such annoying, painful and aesthetically unattractive puffiness.
As you can see for yourself, there is nothing difficult or impossible in the prevention of edema of the lower extremities. I hope my advice will help you eliminate physical and aesthetic discomfort, provide excellent health, pleasant lightness and good mood. Be healthy!