Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Suggest Treatment For Shortness Of Breath And Numb Limbs During Pregnancy
Question: I am 22 wks pregnant. I know I haven't been as healthy during this pregnancy as I was with my first pregnancy 3 ½ years ago. However, even though my ob logs show me as having normal blood pressure, I am having symptoms that would make me think otherwise. I breathe heavy pretty quickly now (normal enough, I know, but not like I ever felt in the first pregnancy), my limbs (most specifically my shins/feet) "fall asleep" very quickly. Today we noticed little bumps in the veins on my wrists. They are not painful. I don't exercise like I used to (I am sure this is a lot of the issue). I also have wart-like sores all over my hands/wrists/spreading to arms. Some are painful. Am not sure if this is a coorelation. Aside from basic exercise, is there something else I can do? Anything homeopathic?
Brief Answer:
exercise, healthy diet, prenatal vitamins
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for your question. It is great that you are inquiring about how to have a healthier pregnancy. It would be very good for you to start a walking program, starting slowly and building up gradually to walk 30-45 minutes every day. Taking a prenatal vitamin with folate is also important. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco also protect your child. Eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and lean protein will increase your energy. Avoiding sugary drinks and sweets will also be helpful. While most homeopathic medications are very safe, I suggest that you consult your obstetrician before using any supplements or homeopathic remedies to make sure they are safe in pregnancy. Good luck and good health to you.
exercise, healthy diet, prenatal vitamins
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for your question. It is great that you are inquiring about how to have a healthier pregnancy. It would be very good for you to start a walking program, starting slowly and building up gradually to walk 30-45 minutes every day. Taking a prenatal vitamin with folate is also important. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco also protect your child. Eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and lean protein will increase your energy. Avoiding sugary drinks and sweets will also be helpful. While most homeopathic medications are very safe, I suggest that you consult your obstetrician before using any supplements or homeopathic remedies to make sure they are safe in pregnancy. Good luck and good health to you.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Thank you for your input. I already take a prenatal vitamin, with folate. I have never smoked, nor have I drank any alcohol since before my first pregnancy. I mostly drink water, with the occasional hot chocolate/tea (because of the cold weather). Unfortunately, fresh fruit/veggies are dwindling (because of cold weather, and so at our house as well). I think I've had about 4 sugary treats since Halloween. I realize that working harder at getting the fresh fruits/veggies is super important. I am doing my best to work in an exercise (walking/yoga/etc.) into my daily routine (not super simple with working 40+ hours--teaching--and taking care of hubby/toddler/house on off hours). I know my pregnancy is not as healthy as my first one (this is only because I started off in excellent shape, nearly vegan, with a lot less surrounding stress), but I am trying to do my best, though I am concerned about my current state, mostly because of the lack of good blood flow.
I was mostly concerned about the bulges in my veins, and if they are anything to be concerned about. (Beyond getting more exercise.)
I personally do not think that the sores on my hands are related, but am not completely sure.
Do you know of any underlying issues (concerning pregnancy or not) that correlate with bulging veins? Do they have to do with blood flow issues? Blood pressure issues? Just being pregnant (as I read on one site)? Something else?
I was mostly concerned about the bulges in my veins, and if they are anything to be concerned about. (Beyond getting more exercise.)
I personally do not think that the sores on my hands are related, but am not completely sure.
Do you know of any underlying issues (concerning pregnancy or not) that correlate with bulging veins? Do they have to do with blood flow issues? Blood pressure issues? Just being pregnant (as I read on one site)? Something else?
Brief Answer:
veins enlarge during pregnancy
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for your follow up information.
It sounds like you are doing many good things during this pregnancy. It is true that due to hormonal and metabolic changes that occur during pregnancy you can have dilated (enlarged) veins. This is a normal part of pregnancy and usually returns to normal after you have had the baby.
I would not worry about the enlarged veins. Just make sure that you are getting regular prenatal care. Your obstetrician will make sure that your blood pressures stay normal. You are doing many healthy things for yourself and your baby. Keep up the good work and just keep working on diet and exercise.
veins enlarge during pregnancy
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for your follow up information.
It sounds like you are doing many good things during this pregnancy. It is true that due to hormonal and metabolic changes that occur during pregnancy you can have dilated (enlarged) veins. This is a normal part of pregnancy and usually returns to normal after you have had the baby.
I would not worry about the enlarged veins. Just make sure that you are getting regular prenatal care. Your obstetrician will make sure that your blood pressures stay normal. You are doing many healthy things for yourself and your baby. Keep up the good work and just keep working on diet and exercise.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Ashwin Bhandari
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
