What Causes Swollen Ankle With History Of Valve Replacement?

Posted on Sun, 20 Apr 2014

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

Sun, 20 Apr 2014 Answered on

Sat, 10 May 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have been taking furosemide for over 52 years ,I am 75 years old and weigh 62 kg ,my height 5ft 2 inches.My ankles are very swollen so my GP put the dose up by one extra . I have 3 in the morning and now 2 in the afternoon .plus 2 Spirolacton .this is working but I am anxious he may decrease this .what can I do , please ?I had heart valve replacement 20 months ago and 2 days later aninfection took hold . .I have been ill ever since . on antibiotics and high 40 deg temperatures ,rigors and Septisemia ,in icu many times . I live in the country.

Answered by Dr. Likaj (-4 hours later)

Brief Answer: The real problem is the infection. Detailed Answer: Hello, Thank you for asking. I think that the real problem you are facing now is the valve infection. What I understand is that we are dealing with chronic endocarditis in a prosthetic valve. It is important that the antibiotics are controlling the fever. I hope they will eradicate the infection. Do you have any positive blood cultures? Do not worry about one or two furosemide more or less. It helps to control the edema. I hope to have addressed your query. Best regards, Dr. Ermal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Likaj (36 minutes later)

They have taken blood tests but none reveal the exact type of bacteria .

Answered by Dr. Likaj (5 hours later)

Brief Answer: you should try again Detailed Answer: I suggest to do the blood test when you have fever. However it is difficult to capture the agent when you are on antibiotics.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj