Avoid crossing your legs while you’re sitting since it can restrict blood flow and worsen your edema.
For example, if you have edema in your feet, start massaging from your toes and work toward your ankle.
If you’re experiencing edema in your arms or hands, raise them straight above your head for about 1–2 minutes at a time to help drain the fluid. Lift your arms once every hour for continued relief.
Avoid wearing compression garments that are too tight since they can irritate your skin. Compression garments apply even pressure on the affected area to prevent fluid from building up.
Avoid keeping ice on your skin for more than 20 minutes since you could give yourself frostbite. Cold compresses help reduce inflammation so your edema doesn’t feel as painful.
If tight clothing rubs against your edema over extended periods of time, you may develop irritation.
You can buy Epsom salt online or from your local drugstore. Epsom salt breaks into magnesium and sulfate that absorbs into your skin and helps alleviate pain.
Always talk to your doctor before starting a new supplement to make sure it doesn’t interfere with other medications you’re taking. Magnesium helps your body reduce nerve pain, so it may help with your edema. [10] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Lavender is an antioxidant and has been shown to reduce and prevent edema. You may also try peppermint, eucalyptus, or chamomile oil as well. [12] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Rather than using salt to season your food, opt for different herbs, spices, or even lemon juice to add new flavors to your dishes. If you’re going out to eat, ask them to prepare your food without salt and get condiments on the side.
Many sports drinks have a high sodium content, so avoid having them.
Smoking and drinking can limit the nutrients getting to the edema and may cause it to get worse.
Light exercise allows oxygen and nutrients to reach the affected area so it’s able to heal faster. If you feel a lot of pain from your edema, talk to your doctor about what exercises will work best for you.
If you have dry skin, you’re more prone to injury and it may take longer for you to recover.
You have skin that is swollen, stretched, or shiny looking Your skin stays dimpled or indented for a moment after you push on it You are pregnant and you experience sudden swelling in your hands or face[20] X Research source
The affected part of your leg may also be red or feel warm to the touch.
Wheezing, difficulty breathing, or sudden shortness of breath A cough with pink or frothy sputum Heavy sweating Grey or bluish skin Confusion, lightheadedness, or dizziness
