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What Causes Indentation After Pressing My Finger On Leg And Will I Die With A Family History Of Heart Failure?

Posted on Thu, 23 Jan 2014

Question: when I depress my finger on my shin area of either leg, it leaves an indentation, similar to as if pressing on a stick of butter, and it remains there for a while. My socks do the same thing. My father died at 45 of heart failure, though he was a binge drinker of alcohol most of his life. His father died at age 50 of the same thing, and also was a binge drinker, therefore I know heart disease runs in the family. I haven't had a drink in over 15 years, but the last time I had my cholesterol screened, it was in t he 250 range. I am 44 years old now and am concerned I am going to die in the near future as my father did. I almost quit smoking entirely, thanks to the electronic cigarettes, so I really am trying to better my health, and I am very active around the house, ride my bike, and walk the dogs as often as I can. Do I have a chance to live past 50?

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: You need complete check-up. Detailed Answer: Hello XXXX Thanks for writing to XXXXXXX Probably you have edema in your lower limbs.Best area to confirm it is to press over malleolar process (bony prominence over ankle in medial side)for 30 seconds. You don't worry.You have long life and only need clinical examination and investigations. Edema(swelling) may be due to many reasons. Investigations include routine hemogram,RBS,LFT,RFT,Lipid profile,Ultrasound of abdomen,Thyroid profile,ECG in all leads.Further investigations can be done if needed. Your cholesterol level is borderline high.You should try to keep it below 200 mg/dl. You Blood pressure is also borderline high.You need regular monitoring. It is good that you don't take alcohol and have quit smoking.This is necessary for your good health. You should continue your physical activity.You are doing good.Don't stand for long periods. Take restricted amount of salt in your diet and take lot of vegetables and fruits.Don't take too much sugar. You should consult your physician and get the investigations done. Proper treatment depends upon clinical findings and investigation reports. Get well soon. Hope i have answered your query. Further queries are most welcome. Take Care Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

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