If you suffer from swollen legs, you know how uncomfortable and painful it can be. But what can you do to ease the swelling? While you can find relief by seeking treatment from El Paso Desert West Vein & Surgery Center, home remedies can be a simple and effective way to relieve your symptoms. Whether you are dealing with temporary swelling from an injury or chronic conditions like edema, there is a home remedy that can help. Read on for some tips on the natural ways you can use to find relief from leg swelling.
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes, including dietary changes and more activity, can relieve your leg swelling. If you are overweight, shedding some pounds can help reduce the pressure on your veins and ease swelling. Eating a healthy diet low in salt can reduce fluid retention and leg swelling. And adding more activity to your day can also be helpful. You should also exercise regularly to improve blood circulation and prevent leg swelling.
Elevate your legs
When you are sitting or lying down, elevate your legs above the level of your heart. This will prevent the pooling of blood and fluid in your lower extremities. You can prop your legs up on a pillow or use a footrest to elevate them while sitting. And at night, try sleeping with your legs elevated on pillows to reduce swelling.
Compression socks
If you have chronic swelling, compression socks can help. These special socks apply pressure to your legs and help improve circulation. These socks are suitable if you have conditions like edema, venous insufficiency, and lymphedema. Compression socks are available in various styles and sizes, and you can purchase them without a prescription.
Drink more water
If you are not drinking enough water, you may be exacerbating your leg swelling. Although this remedy might sound counterintuitive, the truth is that dehydration can cause fluid retention and make your legs swell. When your body has insufficient fluids, it holds onto what it has, leading to puffiness and swelling. So make sure you are drinking plenty of fluids every day. Aim for eight glasses of water per day or more if you are sweating a lot or are in a hot climate.
Try an Epsom salt bath
Epsom salt is a type of magnesium sulfate that is often used in baths to ease muscle pain. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath can therefore reduce leg swelling. The magnesium sulfate draws fluid out of your swollen tissue and reduces inflammation. To use this remedy, add two cups of Epsom salt to a warm bath and soak for 15-20 minutes. You can do this once or twice a week to reduce your leg swelling.
Do not let swollen legs disrupt your life
Leg swelling can disrupt your life and make everyday activities painful. Fortunately, the above home remedies can help. Talk to your doctor before trying any of these remedies to ensure they are safe. And if your leg swelling does not go away or gets worse, make an appointment with a specialist at Desert West Vein & Surgery Center in El Paso, Texas. They will help you find the treatment you need to feel better.