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What Causes Swelling In The Leg After Taking Symbicort?
Question: I am shot of breath, my oxygen level is around 88, I have never smoked an I am 89 years old. pulmonologist tells me flow is low and prescribed symbicort inhaler it helped but made my feet swell.
Brief Answer:
it's probably something else...
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
if the pulmonologist did not diagnose anything more serious like pulmonary embolism then I'll assume that it's COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) indeed and say that symbicort is a good choice, particularly if you've found relief by using it. Symbicort is not supposed to cause swelling. Perhaps another cause will have to be investigated, starting with your heart. Patients with long-standing COPD usually have some degree of heart failure. An ultrasound scan of the heart (echo) will clarify this issue. In patients like you I usually suggest taking a diuretic to help with the excess fluid unless there are contranindications like low potassium or low blood pressure. A review of the other drugs you may be using may be helpful.
I hope it helps!
Please contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.
Kind regards!
it's probably something else...
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
if the pulmonologist did not diagnose anything more serious like pulmonary embolism then I'll assume that it's COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) indeed and say that symbicort is a good choice, particularly if you've found relief by using it. Symbicort is not supposed to cause swelling. Perhaps another cause will have to be investigated, starting with your heart. Patients with long-standing COPD usually have some degree of heart failure. An ultrasound scan of the heart (echo) will clarify this issue. In patients like you I usually suggest taking a diuretic to help with the excess fluid unless there are contranindications like low potassium or low blood pressure. A review of the other drugs you may be using may be helpful.
I hope it helps!
Please contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.
Kind regards!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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