Peripheral Eodema

[Pippa80]

In a previous post I mentioned I had burning sensations in my ankles and lower legs.I wondered if it was to do with high dose of Bisoprolol,I was taking. However cardiologist put me on Verapamil instead. Although I am not so breathless and tired now the pain in my legs has got much worse and I had to go to A&E. The doctor, there, thought I had peripheral Edema and has arranged an MRI scan. I only went to hospital on Thursday and have got an appointment for tomorrow, SUNDAY,!

I have had a scan about 20 years ago and I found it terrifying. I am claustrophobic and the noise was awful. Has anyone else got this condition of swollen burning legs and can anyone reassure me about the scan, perhaps things have improved since then

[Speakeazi]

The MRI is still a bit rubbish But there are things you can do to make it a little easier.

Ask if they have any special periscope glasses so you can see out easily

See if you can either hold your head in such a way to look above and behind or to your feet

Try closing your eyes before you go in

Some of the MRIs are not quite so tight.

I hope you can manage it ok. Ok is good enough!

Good luck

[Pippa80 in reply to Speakeazi]

Thanks for your advice. Was going to ask if could be given a sedative but hope it won’t be too bad an experience.

[Pippa80 in reply to Speakeazi]

MRI scan wasn’t as bad as I expected. Kept my eyes closed all the time though and couldn’t hear the radio because of the noise plus having earplugs and headphones!

[kjt239]

I had a dose of lymphatic oedema a couple of years ago. The doctor wasn’t interested particularly so I fixed it by moving my pillows to the foot of the bed and elevating the leg. (I was bedbound at the time). Took about a couple of weeks with no recurrance.

I have had a few scans over the years - CAT ,MRI and PET. None of them are anything to worry about. I fell asleep during the last one! It is worth taking a favourite cd as many of them have the facility of playing music to the subject.

[Pippa80 in reply to kjt239]

I had an MRI scan today and although very noisy it wasn’t as bad as my previous one. Only radio available but could hardly hear it with earplugs and headphones on

[hf54]

hi , I have had some symptoms like you describe in my lower legs since recovering from heart failure. It's much better now.If you can improve your overall health the symptoms may very well possibly improve. If you are able to do this is one reason why exercise is extremely important walking every day. If you like sitting and watching the TV or the old "Tippy tappy" it is essential to find yourself a periodic"jobs" to do roughly every hour. Not only will this give your mental break but will improve your circulation. Elevating the legs as other people have suggested is definitely a good idea and this should be used COMBINED with exercise.

[Pippa80 in reply to hf54]

Thanks for the advice.I know I should exercise more but it so hard because I get so breathless and my legs ache so much. I tend to put it off but I do potter around the garden. I must make more of an effort especially now the weather is improving. I had to sleep with a wet towel round my legs since they were so painful.