I Am Suffering From Extreme Edema In Both Legs, Feet,

Posted on Sat, 24 Nov 2018

Question: I am suffering from extreme edema in both legs, feet, ankle arms and hands. I can no longer wear any shoes (including slippers) socks rings or loose pants. My husband wants to take me to the ER but perhaps my family doctor should be my first step. Lastly this problem began about one week ago and continues to escalate. I am experiencing increasing pain primarily in my legs and feet - - currently I would rate it between 5 to 6 on a 10 point scale. I only take Kepprar 2 times daily for a seizure disorder & have been on that medication/dosage for over 2 years. I do not drink alcohol (for religious reasons) and take no other medications including OTC or prescription drugs or caffeine. Please advise if you think the Emergency Room should be my best plan of action.

Answered by Dr. Arnold Zedd (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
management of acute diffuse edema

Detailed Answer:
Hello Mrs. Schiller, and welcome to Ask a Doctor. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.
I am impressed by your description of the swelling(edema) and how rapidly it has progressed. Although causes include:
kidney, liver, lung disease
medications
pregnancy
obesity

Do you have any breathing trouble now?
I feel your primary care doctor would want you to go straight to the ER. Let that good husband of yours take you NOW!
If you do not have any need for clarification, you can close the discussion.
wish you good health.
Arnold Zedd, MD, FAAP

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Arnold Zedd (50 minutes later)

Dead Dr Zedd. This was my first time utilizing this services and I am so glad I did!! I greatly appreciate your quick, informative yet succinct reply. As you know the cost of an ER visit can be quite high. I feel better having your input thus confirming it was the most prudent course of treatment. Many thanks again and my husband appreciated the compliment as well!!!

Answered by Dr. Arnold Zedd (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
reply to patient

Detailed Answer:
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Schiller,
Thank you for your remarks. You have made my day.
Dr. Zedd

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng