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What Causes Depression, Swollen Ankles And Lack Of Attention?

Posted on Mon, 12 Sep 2016

Question: I have noticed several changes in my husband. His age is 76. He has been very healthy until last week when all of a sudden, the only way to explain this, he seemed depressed. He seemed to pay closer attention on listening when spoken to, walked with guarded steps, had nothing to say unless questioned and his ankles swelled,which by the way have never swelled before in his life. Three days ago his knuckles on both hands swelled. They settled down yesterday and finally, after at least a week, his edema in his ankles is down also.
Does he need an EEG. EKG. Etc. By the way, his mind seems clearer today than in the last week and a half.

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Following advice

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you for asking!
I read your query and understood your concerns.

His symptoms may be related to:
- Heart failure
- Renal failure
- Venous insufficiency
- Hormonal disorders (hypothyroidism)

If he was my patient I would recommend to do the following examinations to find out what is causing his symptoms:
- Blood work including thyroid hormones
- Ecg
- Cardiac echo
- Abdominal ultrasound
- Doppler examinations of both legs

Hope this will be of help!
Wish you health!
Dr. Shehu

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

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