Edema

[carlapv]

I read in a post several days ago that it is not good if there is redness accompanying edema in your feet, ankles and legs. What does the redness mean? Is it always a concern? I have been dealing with edema forever (or it seems like it), and I have redness just above the ankles to about the middle of my calf. My right leg and foot are the worst but the left is also affected. Should I be concerned?

Thank you all for the great information you provide on this site. I know that I don't post very often, but I read the forums at least once everyday and sometimes twice and I can't tell you how much the information has helped me.

Carla

 

[Ross]

Hi Carla

Is there any pain associated with this swelling?

The redness is usually a sign of circulatory problems and/or perhaps a blood clot. At any rate, contact your Doctor about this ASAP. Better safe then sorry.

 

[Nancy]

Yes, Carla-

You should be concerned. Among other things, it could be cellulitis. Joe has had that when his edema has gotten bad. So call the doc today and have him/her Dx it. Are you on any diuretics?

Best wishes.

 

[carlapv]

Edema

Sometimes my ankles are sore just from the swelling, but not bad . I am on hydrochlorothiazide, 25 mg per day. I had to practically beg for this a couple of months ago because my card. did not want to disturb the balance he has achieved with all my meds, atenolol, amiodarone, altace, coumadin, and lipitor. Of course, the day that I went in to see him I had hardly any swelling so I quess he thought I didn't really need anything. I have had two bouts of atrial fib and he does not want to chance it again. I have had several years of dealing with fluid retention to the point that I have to have 2 wardrobes, one for when I am okay and the next size up for when I inflate. I developed this problem 2 months after I had the valvuloplasty and was hospitalized with CHF. This was back in 1995 and I have done this ever since. I have to go on a business trip next week and flying is the worst. I guess it must be the pressurization that causes the swelling to worsen.

Thanks again for all your help.

Carla

 

[bvdr]

Hi Carla,

I don't have much to add to what the others have said already. What you really need to watch for is redness, tenderness, increased warmth to the touch, and one leg being distinctly different than the other. That combination should send up a warning signal. Sometimes following cellulitis ( like Nancy was talking about) there can remain a redness that almost becomes like a stain under the skin. This tends to become fairly permament and seems to be particularily common on the front of the lower legs. Some days it can be more noticable that on other days. As with anything, watch for changes especially sudden ones. When in any doubt pick up that phone and call your doctor.

Things that may help the edema when flying:

Drink only water for two days prior to flying.
Extremely low sodium diet for the same period.
Get up and walk during the flight if at all possible.
Absolutely no alcohol on the plane.
Open and close your hands and stretch your fingers frequently.

I have problems with some of the same things. I too have two wardrobes and mostly elastic waists. It can be a problem can't it? Anyway, I hope this helps and have a good trip!

Betty(bvdr)

 

[Nancy]

Hi Betty-

You are quite right about the permanent discoloration. Joe has that also.

Carla, cellulitis is an infection in the skin and Joe had to go on antibiotics for that. It may or may not be the case for you, but that's why it should get checked out.

 

[carlapv]

Edema

Thanks guys for responding. Betty, I am so glad someone else knows about the flying thing. People just look at me like I am crazy, when I say that flying makes it worse and flying a 757 is the worst plane of all. Of course, the general public knows so little about heart problems and all that is involved, I guess that you don't think about till it's you! I get real frustrated with people who see me get SOB and tell me all I need is to exercise and all will be well! It seems like they would realize that if changing my shirt makes me out of breath then sit ups are really gonna do me in. You would think people would be more sensitive . Oh well, enough whinning for one day.

Thanks again for the responses,

Carla

 

[Christina]

Edema in leg, ankle and foot.

Edema in leg, ankle and foot.

Carla,

I also have edema and redness of the skin just above the ankle in my left leg.
I saw the cardiologist this week (6 month regular appointment) and he wasn't that concerned with it. He thought maybe I had an infection in the lower leg, but that would have made me feel bad, and given me a fever he said. He saw me for about 7 minutes in total. Have to come back in December.
I've had the redness for some time and wish it would go away. People ask me what I have, and of course I don't know.