Water retention causes puffiness in the feet and ankles, hands, face and vulva. Sometimes it can be a sign of pre-eclampsia if it occurs in conjunction with other symptoms such as high blood pressure, small urine output and high levels of uric acid in the blood.
Swelling, also called oedema is due to an accumulation of fluids in the tissues, influenced by the levels of salt or sodium in the body. Salt is a dietary essential, however, an excessive amount will exacerbate fluid retention.

Drink 2-3 litres of water a day.

Relieve discomfort of swollen ankles and legs by putting your feet up regularly.

Wear comfortable shoes.

Avoid restrictive elastic-topped stockings.

Brisk walking encourages circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Keep to a fresh, wholesome diet and avoid pre-packaged meals and snacks as they contain high levels of salt/sodium.

Freshly juiced watermelon tastes delicately sweet and is a wonderful kidney tonic with diuretic properties.

A combination of cucumber, carrot and celery juices helps reduce water retention.

Reflexology treatments have been proven to reduce oedema.

Massage encourages lymphatic drainage and elimination of excess water.

Pressure point therapies shiatsu and acupuncture encourage the elimination of excess water.

Self-help acupressure points Kidney 3.

Taking vitamin B6 has proven useful to reduce oedema.

Often the swelling is worst at the end of the day and reduces overnight. Slightly raising the end of your bed can help drainage.

Avoid commercial diuretics as they often exacerbate the problem.

If your hands or face become puffy, call your doctor as this could be sign for pre-eclampsia.