Why Do My Legs Seem Thicker During Menstruation?

The thickening of legs during menstruation may be caused by hormone stimulation, soft tissue injury, contact dermatitis, glomerulonephritis, or varicose veins in the lower extremities. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive corresponding improvement or treatment measures under the guidance of a doctor. The details are as follows:

1. Hormone Stimulation

During menstruation, the hormonal levels in the body are unstable, which can easily lead to water and sodium retention, causing the legs to thicken. A hot towel can be used to apply heat to the affected area, promoting local blood circulation and tissue metabolism. The duration of heat application should be 10 to 15 minutes, and the symptoms will gradually return to normal after a period of time.

2. Soft Tissue Injury

If the legs are subjected to external impact, it may cause subcutaneous capillaries to rupture and bleed, leading to local swelling, pain, or thickening of the legs. Cold compresses with a cold towel can be applied to promote vasoconstriction, reducing local bleeding or pain. The duration of cold compresses should be 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, under the guidance of a doctor, drugs such as Huoxue Zhitong Plaster, Xiaozhong Zhitong Tincture, and Amikacin Lotion can be used to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis.

3. Contact Dermatitis

If you are allergic and come into contact with certain allergens during menstruation, such as pollen or dust mites, it can trigger an immune response, increasing capillary permeability and causing symptoms like thickened legs, redness, and itching. Avoiding allergens can prevent recurrent symptoms. Drugs such as Calamine Lotion, Mometasone Furoate Cream, and Loratadine Tablets can be prescribed by a doctor to provide anti-allergic effects.

4. Glomerulonephritis

If you have glomerulonephritis, it may flare up during menstruation, causing symptoms like hematuria, proteinuria, and leg edema. Elevating the affected limb can promote venous return. Drugs such as Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, Furosemide Tablets, and Prednisone Acetate Tablets can be prescribed by a doctor to promote urination, reduce swelling, and fight inflammation.

5. Varicose Veins in the Lower Extremities

This may be related to venous valve insufficiency, causing prominent veins and feelings of heaviness or swelling in the legs. Wearing compression stockings, which utilize the principle of pressure reduction, can improve blood circulation in the lower extremities. In severe cases, drugs like Sodium Aescinate Tablets, Calcium Dobesilate Dispersible Tablets, and Xue Saitong Tablets can be prescribed by a doctor to improve local blood circulation. Surgical options like high ligation of the great saphenous vein combined with endovenous laser ablation may also be considered.

Apart from the above factors, conditions like renal failure may also be responsible. During treatment, it is important to wear loose and comfortable pants to avoid compression or friction.