Edema Relieving Measures

Instructed patient and caregiver of some tips that may help reduce swelling: Put your legs on pillows to raise them above your heart while lying down. Exercise your legs. This helps pump fluid from your legs back to your heart. Follow a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid buildup and swelling. Wear support stockings (sold at most drugstores and medical supply stores). When traveling, take breaks often to stand up and move around. Avoid wearing tight clothing or garters around your thighs. Lose weight if you need to. Never stop taking any medicines you think may be causing swelling without first talking to your health care provider.