What Causes Ankles And Feet Swelling While On Treatment For Hypertension?

Posted on Sat, 26 Apr 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 26 Apr 2014 Answered on

Sat, 17 May 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello, I am 71 years of age and have been going to a general practitioner for many years. I am being treated for hypertension (with Lotrel 10/20 and Clonidine 5 mg patch), cholesterol (Crestor - 5 mg), too fast a heartbeat (with Bystolic - 5 mg), chronic anxiety (with Diazepam - 5 mg). I went to a foot doctor 2 weeks ago because my instep and ankles on both feet had been swelling. He recommended that I ask my primary dr. if he would order a water pill called Lasix. I have called my primary dr. several times and he has been on vacation, is with a patient, but will not return my calls. Is there an over-the-counter water pill that I can take instead of an RX one? I am due back in the podiatrist's office in 2 weeks to pick up my orthotic insoles.

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Possible side effect of Lotrel...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Ankles and feet swelling might be a side effect of Lotrel. To determine it, I suggest to run further tests:
- ECG
- blood electrolytes
- kidney/liver function tests

If everything is ok, then, might be a side effect of Lotrel. Should consult your doctor to choose another alternative.

If not related to Lotrel neither, then, might be due to local arthritis problems or deep vein thrombosis.

Hope it was of help! Let me know I can assist you further!
Dr.Benard

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar