Question:
retaining water in calves
The last 3 wks i am swelling in my lower legs (CALVES) , ankles and feet. I bought water pills for the 1st time ever and it did not make me urinate more than usual, so i took another one, no luck. it hurts when i walk. i elevate my legs also. are there water pills out there that will work, any suggestions? Thank you for any suggestions. — julie R. (posted on September 18, 2006)
September 18, 2006
Hi Julie- you didnt mention if you were pre op- post op, non op or what.
Also it sounds to me like you are trying to resolve the edema without
seeking medical attention. For swelling this bad, please see your PCP at
least. There are reasons for the swelling, and they may need attending to
with more than over the counter diuretics. We have several good
prescription diuretics, but in order to get them, you need to be seen and
have a comprehensive diagnosis. Before you are seen by the doctor, there
are several things for you to check- #1 you still need to drink your water.
#2-cut out everything with salt= that means buy salt free everything, and
don't use table salt when cooking. Just those few things can radically
reduce the swelling. Even if you smoke, that contributes to edema. I hope
you are seen soon, as I know from years of swollen feet etc, its painful
and it wont get better unless it is addressed by a professional. Cindi
3.24.04 -230#
— DollyDoodles
September 18, 2006
I agree with Doodles. If this has been going on for 3 weeks, you need to
see a doc asap. You (and us for that matter) doesn't know what's going on
and it could be serious. Or it could be something small but the doc could
give you a Rx water pill. Continue drinking water and no salt. See a
doctor! Hope you feel better.
— platypus
September 18, 2006
When you see your doctor ask him about getting and wearing Compression
Stockings. I've been wearing them since 1990. 20-30mm compression.
Medicaid/Medicare and some insurances cover them. If your self pay as I am
try this website: http://supporthosestore.com/index.html
— Michael Eak
September 18, 2006
PLEASE call your doctor, I was told any kind of pain in the calves must be
reported. This could be a sign of something developing, and your doctor
must know immediately.
— MomofKate
September 18, 2006
I have to agree with Doodles, wait no longer contact your PCP. Your
problem could be circulation and not necessarily and not necessarily a
solution for water pills. Since elevating appears to not be helping
either, see your doctor.
— the7thdean
September 18, 2006
Yes, definately see your doctor. It could be blood clots or anything. You
will need a prescription water pill like laxis if everything checks out
okay. Don't wait to long.
— roberta45
September 19, 2006
I had what I thought was Edema but it turned out to be Lymphedema. This is
where your lymph system is damaged (just a small amount of damage can cause
it) and the lymph fluids and protein pools in your legs. Mine got so bad it
even went to my abdomen. Please ask you doctor about this too. No matter
how many water pills you take, they don't help Lymphedema because the lymph
fluid must drain through the lymphnatic system. This can only be done by a
physical therapist trained in MLD (manual lymphnatic drainage). Lymphedema
can never be cured, only controled. Damage to the lymph system can't be
repaired. It can come from surgery, obesity and other things. Please ask
about it. Good luck.
— Sandy~Diamond
September 19, 2006
— aprilbaree
September 19, 2006
CALL YOUR DOCTOR RIGHT NOW or go to the ER. It may be a bloodclot and very
dangerous! Let us know what happens. I would rather send a bunch to the ER
than miss one and have something bad happen.....
— bob-haller
September 22, 2006
You actually need to take in more water or decaffeinated fluids when you
are taking those types of meds. Your body cells will start to retain fluids
if you do not give it the amounts that it requires to support normal body
functions. So, if you are taking them and have not upped your fluids your
body is retaining even more water, talk about a vicious circle. Get to your
doctor to talk about your medical condition that you are going through
right now. It sounds like you really need to be supervised by a medical
practicioner and not be on over the counter (OTC) meds. Water pills of any
types whether it is OTC or a prescription needs to be supervised by a
doctor. They can cause your potassioum levels to dip real low. Chris
— ChristineB
Click Here to Return