What Causes Premenstrual Edema?
May 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Zhe
Introduction
Edema results from hormonal imbalances leading to water and sodium retention in the body. The location of edema varies among individuals due to differences in physical constitution—for instance, some people experience facial swelling, while others develop swelling in the limbs or hands and feet. Therefore, it is recommended to get adequate rest, avoid excessive fatigue, and follow a low-sodium diet. Patients with severe edema should seek medical evaluation at a hospital to assess endocrine hormone levels.
Prior to menstruation, most women experience varying degrees of physical symptoms, such as edema in the hands and feet or facial swelling. So, what causes premenstrual edema?
What Causes Premenstrual Edema?
Premenstrual edema is primarily caused by hormonal imbalances, leading to water and sodium retention in the body. The specific location of the edema varies depending on individual constitution—for instance, some women experience facial swelling, while others develop swelling in their limbs or extremities. Therefore, it is recommended to get adequate rest, avoid excessive physical exertion, and follow a low-salt diet. In severe cases, patients should consult a healthcare provider for endocrine hormone testing and receive targeted pharmacological treatment based on the test results.
Avoid salty foods before menstruation. Excessively salty foods promote fluid retention in the body and may exacerbate edema; thus, adopting a low-salt diet starting 10 days prior to the onset of menstruation is advisable. Additionally, incorporating diuretic foods into your diet during this period can help eliminate excess fluid. Mung bean soup and winter melon soup are excellent choices. Alcohol consumption should be minimized, as it can worsen premenstrual edema. If drinking alcohol is unavoidable, limit intake to one or two servings.
When experiencing premenstrual edema, patients need not worry excessively. Maintaining a positive mental state, ensuring sufficient rest, and adhering to a light, balanced diet will typically lead to rapid resolution of the edema. We hope this information proves helpful.
