What causes foot swelling in women?
Disease description:
In the late stages of pregnancy, legs often become swollen. Why does this happen?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Foot swelling in women can be caused by various factors:
1. Varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis: Prolonged standing or sitting can obstruct venous return in the lower limbs, leading to foot edema. When deep vein thrombosis occurs, blood return becomes more difficult, resulting in more pronounced swelling.
2. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the enlarged uterus compresses the inferior vena cava, impairing blood return from the lower limbs. Combined with hormonal changes during pregnancy, foot swelling commonly occurs.
3. Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause may also cause foot edema.
4. Endocrine disorders: Hypothyroidism or changes in the menstrual cycle can lead to hormonal imbalances that affect water and salt metabolism, causing swelling.
5. Malnutrition: Insufficient protein intake or poor absorption can result in hypoalbuminemia, reduced plasma osmotic pressure, and fluid leakage into the interstitial spaces, causing edema.
If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.
