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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Does Swelling In Ankle Indicate While Having High BP?

I have high blood pressure and had a quad bypass surgery in 2009 and as long as I can remember docs always checked my ankle areas for swelling and/or asked be about swelling in them. Last night before bed, I couldn't see my ankle bones and haven't since. I feel great and have no pains. I am visiting my daughter on the coast in Virginia and usually live at elevation of 5500 ft in AZ.Should I be concerned?
Mon, 18 Jan 2016
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Dentist 's  Response
Hi...
Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC...

I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns...

Swollen ankles is a very common condition among high blood pressure patients because of fluid to build up in lower legs and ankles, which causes them to swell up.
In its early stages, ankle swelling is an inconvenience but does not cause any major problems. But, if it is left untreated over a long period of time, it will start to put unwanted pressure on the blood vessels and tissues of the ankle.
This can lead to problems such as cellulitis (where the skin becomes infected and can lead to abscesses if not treated), varicose veins and venous ulcers (ulcers on the outer layers of the skin).
Swollen ankles can also be a side effect of some blood pressure medicines, in particular calcium channel blockers.
You can help to reduce the swelling by sitting with your legs lifted up. This lets your blood flow more freely and should help reduce the swelling.
As a precautionary measure, you should consult with your physician . If your ankle swelling is due to taking calcium channel blockers, reducing the dose of your medicine will help. Or, if your blood pressure is not fully controlled, your doctor may prescribe you a diuretic to help lower your blood pressure further and remove the excess fluid.

Hope this information helps...
Thanks & Regards,
Dr.Shiwani
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What Does Swelling In Ankle Indicate While Having High BP?

Hi... Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC... I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns... Swollen ankles is a very common condition among high blood pressure patients because of fluid to build up in lower legs and ankles, which causes them to swell up. In its early stages, ankle swelling is an inconvenience but does not cause any major problems. But, if it is left untreated over a long period of time, it will start to put unwanted pressure on the blood vessels and tissues of the ankle. This can lead to problems such as cellulitis (where the skin becomes infected and can lead to abscesses if not treated), varicose veins and venous ulcers (ulcers on the outer layers of the skin). Swollen ankles can also be a side effect of some blood pressure medicines, in particular calcium channel blockers. You can help to reduce the swelling by sitting with your legs lifted up. This lets your blood flow more freely and should help reduce the swelling. As a precautionary measure, you should consult with your physician . If your ankle swelling is due to taking calcium channel blockers, reducing the dose of your medicine will help. Or, if your blood pressure is not fully controlled, your doctor may prescribe you a diuretic to help lower your blood pressure further and remove the excess fluid. Hope this information helps... Thanks & Regards, Dr.Shiwani