Treatment for edema

Treatment for edema

Edema is the medical term for any unnatural swelling of the legs and feet. Edema manifests itself most commonly during pregnancy, or as a result of water retention due to diet over loaded with salt, or just before the onset of the menstrual cycle in women. Sometimes, it could also occur when you sit for overly long periods of time with your feet dangling or touching the ground.


Make it a point to walk around if you have edema. This will boost circulation in your legs. Wiggle your toes; this will improve circulation in your toes. Make it a point to lie down with your feet elevated at least as much as your head is, if not more. This will help reverse the blood flow that has gone and jammed into your feet. It is also advisable to cut salt from your diet. Table salt is an absolute no-no. It is also important to increase your water intake to at least about 10 liters a day. Initially, this will be difficult, but over a period of time it gets easier. Also, more water will flush excess salt and reduce swelling in less than a day. Switch to wearing flat soled shoes and avoid wearing tight socks or trousers.