What would cause just my left foot to swell 4 days after delivering?!
Question:
What would cause just my left foot to swell 4 days after delivering?
I delivered my first child 4 days ago. Before I delivered, my feet were not swollen, and they did not swell while I was pregnant. I have bad varicose veins in my left leg. The ones just under my knee in the back are really tender...to the touch. I do not know if the swelling has anything to do with the vein issue, or if it is something normal after delivering. Plus it is only in my left leg that the swelling has taken place...my right one is just fine. Can anyone tell me what is going on? Thanks.
Answers:
Hey. Congratulations on your delivery. It's great new to hear.
About your leg, well there are many causes, but the most important one is deep vein thrombosis (please don't be alarmed). Pregnancy and the period immediately after delivery is a pro-thrombotic state. In another words, there is an increased tendency for the blood to clot in your body. So a clot in one of the veins in your legs is more likely. So what do you need to do now? Well clots are treatable. I suggest that you remain calm, and go to your local Accident and emergency/GP doctor right away. Hope this helps. And oh, enjoy your new role as mother. Take care.