During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes which come with a share of discomforts as the body adjusts. While leg pain may appear like a minor discomfort, at times, it may emanate from serious health issues. Among conditions associated with leg pain during pregnancy include:
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
DVT is a vascular condition caused by obstruction of a vein by a blood clot. Pregnant women are at a higher risk for blood clots than women who are not. Symptoms include severe swelling, pain, warmth, and tenderness. If left untreated, clots may travel through the circulatory system and cause a pulmonary embolism. Veniti shares that there are chances of complications like the development of post thrombotic syndrome symptoms such as hyperpigmentation, pruritus and skin induration.
Leg Cramps
Cramps often develop in the second trimester and get worse as the pregnancy progresses. It is suspected that they result from exhaustion of muscles caused by carrying extra weight and fluid buildup in the legs. They are most noticeable during the night and could interfere with the quality of sleep you are getting. To relieve your legs from the discomfort, stretch and massage your calf muscles using a hot water bottle. Where the cramps are constant and come with swelling and tenderness, seek immediate medical attention.
Restless Leg Syndrome
Another cause of painful legs during pregnancy is restless leg syndrome. It is a condition leading to unpleasant sensations while you are at rest and insomnia. Its symptoms include pain and an urge to move the lower legs. Although it is incurable, medical treatment accompanied by walking, iron supplementation and reduction of caffeine intake help to lessen the symptoms.
In pregnancy, even the simplest of concerns should not go unaddressed by a physician. It is the only way to ascertain the wellbeing of mother and child. If you experience prolonged pain and discomfort in your legs, seek medical attention to prevent it from escalating.
