Fluid Retention in Legs – Causes and Natural Treatments:

Water retention is a condition characterized by excessive fluid accumulation in the body. Normally, the body regulates the fluid level naturally. When additional water is consumed, the body will take about two days to restore the fluid level back to its normal state. It does so by excreting excess water from the blood stream and passing it on to the kidneys, from where it is expelled through the urine. This condition occurs when the blood vessels are unable to dispel fluid into the blood stream. As a result, the blood accumulates in the tissues and joints in the surrounding areas. Water retention is caused due to a weakened circulatory system of the body.

Our body cells contain water and are also surrounded by water. The level of this water is controlled by hormones, the kidneys and sodium. When the sodium content is excessive, water is extracted from the cells in order to dilute it in the blood. This leads to a thirst for additional water. Certain steroid medications can also lead to water retention as they lead to excess sodium retention in the kidneys. Fluctuations in hormonal levels may also lead to retention of water. It usually occurs in women during the menstrual cycle. This is because estrogen levels are at a high during this time and this produces the hormone aldosterone. This leads the kidneys to hold on to water, which then accumulates in the areas of the stomach and breasts. Pregnancy also leads women to retain water in the legs. This occurs as the swell in the abdomen puts pressure on the veins which are unable to send fluid back to the heart, leading to water retention in the legs. When the heart is unable to pump strongly enough, it can also cause fluid retention in the tissues. Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle can also cause water retention in the legs.

Remaining in a sitting position for a prolonged period of time may cause swelling in the legs and so it is best to stand or take a walk at regular intervals. Regular exercise also goes a long way in preventing fluid accumulation in the tissues. Excessive consumption of salt reduces the water level in the body, causing the body to require more and more water. Hence it is important to restrict your salt intake. Caffeine works as a diuretic and hence intake of coffee tends to restrict fluid accumulation. Soaking the feet in warm water helps to reduce the swelling. Ice compresses also serve this purpose. Including bananas and cabbage in your diet also helps to reduce fluid retention.