leg swelling

Question. I used to have fluid retention in my legs, especially at period time . After surgery it seemed to go away almost, but in the past 6-8 months is coming back again. Is it humidity that my legs can swell up to the shins at times or am I not drinking enough water. I know that if I sit all day they can swell up, and thyroid can add to it, but I just want to know if others have had this problem. Thanks, and blessings, Tami

HI I WAS JUST READING YOUR POST .I DO HAVE THYROID(UNDERACTIVE).I DEVELPOED IT AFTER THE BIRTH OF MY DAUGHTER IN 2003.I HAD GASTRIC BYPASS IN 2001.I STILL AM HAVING A HARD TIME LOSING.IN 2001  I WEIGHED 328LBS.WENT DOWN TO 217LBS.SINCE THE BIRTH OF MY DAUGHTER I CURRENTLY WEIGH 242LBS.I TAKE SYNTHROID.125AND CYTOMEL .05. I JUST CAN NOT GET THE WEIGHT OFF.I DO EXPERIENCE BLOATINGAND LEG  SWELLING.I AM GOING TO FIND A NEW DOCTOR TO TREAT MY THYROID.MY CURRENT DOCTOR IS NOT HELPING.        DANA.

I also have this problem..but I had this before surgery...it's called lymphedema. There is not a cure for it. I don't know if you have lymphedema or not but this has been my personal experience only. I would ask you're dr. about it though....I have to use compression stockings. If you sit prop you're feet up that will help.

Hello Tami, Sorry, but I must reply to the above post.  What you are describing DOES NOT sound like LYMPHAEDEMA.  (I'm not shouting, just emphasizing).  Lymphaedema is a chronic condition that requires intensive treatment (Ask OH's AMY) and it does not come and go like your fluid retention.  That said, fluid retention in the feet and legs is called dependent edema (edema meaning swelling).  When you elevate your legs, does the swelling diminish or go away?  That's one way to tell.  Increasing fluid intake will help trigger your body to increase urinary output (diuresis).  Humidity has nothing to do with it. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.  You should see your PCP to put your mind at ease.  Good health to you, Cindy

thanks. I will check into it. at night it goes away, and it gets worse if I am sitting for a long time, so I know its the circulation. I don't know why it did not occur for such a long time, then returned. probably not much to do about it, just annoying! blessings, and thanks, Tami

My legs were ALWAYS swollen when I was heavy....They do swell occasionally when I eat too much salt (Chinese food especially...probably the msg too)  and  when I don't drink enough water. I get it near my time of the month (TOM)  like right now...But I'm drinking plenty and doing good!  See if water helps and raise your feet...For me it's definately when I do not get enough water for a few days straight...It clears right up after I hydrate for a day or two... Hope that's all you need to do!   Anita

good point. I probably need to drink more water. Why is it so darned hard to get tha****er in, you'd think its poison or something! Thanks, Tami

Severe varicose veins can also cause the swelling. Compression stockings, raising your feet, walking and increasing your liquid intake can all help. However, check with your PCP.