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What Causes Swollen Feet In Elderly?
Question: My wife's feet have frequently been swollen, however tonight they seem ready to explode-they are so swollen. I had her take her blood pressure-just a few minutes ago. The reading was/is 166/110. She has been diagnosed as being in the first (or second) stage of Alzeimers. Over the past few months, she has passed out from her blood pressure bottoming out. I don't know what to do with her this evening regarding her swollen feet. What could mean? What should we be doing? Her age is 71, mine is 74 (with progressive heart disease).
Brief Answer:
some tests and treatment
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to healthcare magic.
Feet swelling has got many causes like congestive heart failure, liver disorders with low serum albumin, immobility, dependant posture, hypothyroidism, deep vein thrombosis to name a few.
In your wife's case dependant posture, immobility and high BP related failure state are putative causes. Also get her checked for hypothyroidism
Get Liver function test, renal function test, TSH and freeT4 levels, a Chest Xray to start with.
Get her reviewed by a local physician.
Elevate her swollen limbs above the level of her heart with pillows underneath, apply Crepe bandage with slight pressure, if Blood pressure permits long acting diuretics may be helpful.
Mild antihypertensive can be used in consult with a local clinician.
I hope the advice will be helpful.
some tests and treatment
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to healthcare magic.
Feet swelling has got many causes like congestive heart failure, liver disorders with low serum albumin, immobility, dependant posture, hypothyroidism, deep vein thrombosis to name a few.
In your wife's case dependant posture, immobility and high BP related failure state are putative causes. Also get her checked for hypothyroidism
Get Liver function test, renal function test, TSH and freeT4 levels, a Chest Xray to start with.
Get her reviewed by a local physician.
Elevate her swollen limbs above the level of her heart with pillows underneath, apply Crepe bandage with slight pressure, if Blood pressure permits long acting diuretics may be helpful.
Mild antihypertensive can be used in consult with a local clinician.
I hope the advice will be helpful.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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