Why?

[Sam]

Why do my joints and legs swell. They feel heavy and it's really uncomfortable. I can't fit into my jeans either.

Mandy, Leeds.

[Sam]

It sounds like water retention but please see your gp to clarify this. Water retention is a classic symptom. For most women, water retention is just a monthly bother but in some cases, it can be severe enough to interfere with your life and daily activities.

Premenstrual water retention causes a bloated, heavy feeling the week or two before your period begins. What causes water retention and other symptoms is unclear, but hormonal changes seem to play a major role. Your families medical history could be a factor too. Your diet, such as a lack of certain vitamins or too much salt — might also contribute to water retention.

Put lifestyle changes to work

Taking good care of yourself can help reduce water retention.

Include physical activity in your daily routine. Women who participate in regular physical activity generally report much fewer symptoms.
Skip the salt. Limiting the amount of salt in your diet can help prevent water retention drastically. Eat fewer processed foods. Don't add extra salt at the table or during cooking.

Pay attention to hidden sources of sodium, such as soy sauce, canned vegetables, soups and deli meats. Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains. As always, if possible avoid caffeine and alcohol at all costs. The term water retention (fluid retention) or hydrops, hydropsy signifies an abnormal accumulation of clear, watery fluid in the tissues or cavities of the body. Water is found both inside and outside the body's cells.

Book yourself in to see your Doctor who will discuss this with you and answer all of your questions professionally.

~S