A limb can swell due to pregnancy, an accident, or other health problems. If left untreated, it can cause discomfort and even cause severe pain. You can find relief by keeping the swollen area elevated, drinking plenty of fluids, and applying a cool compress. Read on to learn how to treat swelling.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Treating Swelling Caused by Injury
Step 1. Rest the affected area
If a limb has swollen as a result of injury or poor circulation, you should keep it at rest for some time. If it is a foot, avoid subjecting it to strenuous movements at least for a few days until the swelling has subsided.
- If you have injured your lower limbs, consider using crutches or a cane to avoid putting too much pressure on the affected area.
- If your arm swelled up after an accident, use the other arm to get things done or ask someone for help.
Step 2. Lift the affected area
Whenever you sit or lie down, place the swollen limb on a pillow, trying to raise it above the level of the heart. This will prevent blood from accumulating at the site affected by the swelling and will promote circulation.
- If necessary, use a sling brace to keep the arm raised.
- If it is severe, try to sit up and lift the swollen area for a few hours.
Step 3. Apply a cold pack
High temperatures aggravate the swelling, so a cold compress will be a cure-all. Avoid applying ice directly to the skin, but wrap it in a towel and place it on the affected area. Leave it 15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Step 4. Take medication
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are drugs that reduce pain and swelling. Among the most common ones consider ibuprofen (trade names are Brufen, Nurofen, Moment, Cibalgina, Antalgil) and naproxen (Momendol, Synflex, Aleve). Be aware that acetaminophen (Tachipirina) is not an NSAID and does not reduce swelling. Consult your doctor to find out which drug may be best suited to your health needs.
Part 2 of 3: Treating General Swelling
Step 1. Choose a low impact physical activity
Although you should rest the swollen area, the total lack of movement for long periods of time impairs blood circulation and, in the long run, increases the swelling. Get up and walk around occasionally while you're at work, and do some low-impact exercise during the week. Consider yoga, swimming, and walking with a friend.
- If you have to sit at your desk all day, try alternating with an upright desk. If you can't, try to get up and walk around the office every hour or so.
- When sitting, change your position often and, if possible, keep your feet slightly elevated.
Step 2. Reduce your sodium intake
A high sodium intake promotes bloating, so avoid consuming foods that are rich in it. Also, drink plenty of water to remove salt from your body.
- To improve the purifying properties of the water, try adding a few slices of cucumber and lemon. They are both natural anti-inflammatories.
- If you can, choose water over drinks that contain sodium. Often even the sugary ones are rich in it.
Step 3. Adjust your clothes
If they squeeze on swollen areas, they can further impair blood circulation, making the problem worse. So, avoid tight-fitting clothing (especially nylons or suspenders) and try wearing supportive or graduated compression stockings.
Step 4. Take magnesium supplements
The swelling may get worse if you have a magnesium deficiency. Buy a supplement at a drugstore or health food store and take 250 mg per day.
Step 5. Soak the affected area in tonic water
The bubbles and quinine contained in this drink help relieve swelling. Pour cold (or lukewarm, if you can't stand the low temperature) into a bowl and soak the swollen area for 15-20 minutes once a day.
Step 6. Take a bath with Epsom salts
When dissolved in water, Epsom salts have natural anti-inflammatory properties. Add two tablespoons to the tub and mix them with the hot water. For best results, repeat this every day.
Step 7. Get a massage
By rubbing the affected area, you can reduce swelling and increase blood supply. You can see a massage therapist or give yourself a massage on the swollen area on your own. Use grapefruit essential oil for more benefits. If you prefer to go it alone, try to push the inflamed area up rather than down.
Part 3 of 3: Knowing When to See Your Doctor
Step 1. Get examined if the swelling is chronic
If the methods described so far have not helped you to relieve the inflammation within a few days, consult your doctor to find out if there is a more serious problem at the origin.
- Severe swelling in pregnancy could be a symptom of preeclampsia, a syndrome characterized by the presence of edema and hypertension.
- Some drug therapies can cause widespread swelling, including antidepressants, hormone treatments, and high blood pressure medications.
- Heart, kidney or liver failure promotes the accumulation of fluid in the body and causes swelling.
Step 2. Call your doctor right away if you experience any other severe symptoms
If accompanied by other signs, the swelling could indicate a heart, kidney, or liver problem. In this case, you should consult your doctor immediately. Contact them if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Chest pain.
- Dyspnea.
- Sudden increase in swelling in pregnancy.
- Fever.
- Diagnosis of heart disease or liver disease associated with swelling.
- Warmth to the touch in the swollen area.
Advice
- Try several methods at a time to relieve swelling as they can be especially effective when combined together.
- Being overweight can significantly contribute to the worsening of swelling. If you are overweight, suffer from poor circulation and bloating, try to lose weight and stay healthy.
Warnings
- It is necessary to consult the doctor in case of unexplained swelling in any part of the body.
- Seek immediate medical attention if swelling is localized on the face (mouth, eyes, etc.).
- If the swelling is severe or you believe you have fractured a limb, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
