Oedema

[Minushabens]

Hi all

I currently take a range of medicines for asthma, ABPA & blood pressure. I've had issues with swollen legs for quite a while but have just put up with it (& my GP & consultant have both taken a view that as long as it wasn't too bad, getting the other conditions under control was more important). However, over the last few days, my left leg has swollen much more than usual, the foot is very red & I have continual leakage. I'm also in severe pain with it.

I have a GP appointment on Monday, but this couldn't have come at a much worse time as I'm about to go through a 2-week appraisal-type process to see if my teaching contract will be extended, so I can do without hobbling around my classroom!

All the online information tends to say is things like 'treating underlying conditions will solve the oedema'...if only!

Anyway, I wondered if anyone has any tips either for reducing swelling (raising my legs works up to a point but isn't really solving it) or in particular for pain management until I can get to see the doctor?

[Kitten-kat23]

When I had this problem, the only thing that worked was to stop the medication. I'm so sorry I can't give you a more helpful reply. I truly hope you get relief soon.

[Minushabens Asthma Captain in reply to Kitten-kat23]

Thank you...I went to the drop-in centre this morning as the pain was becoming too much. The doctors told me that I have developed cellulitis & gave me a course of antibiotics which will hopefully get rid. I've got some strong painkillers as well so hopefully, altogether it should start to turn around.

I was a bit spooked to be honest as my dad, who had lung problems all his life, had something very similar in his last months & sepsis linked to severe lung problems was mentioned after he died.

Anyway, fingers crossed that it will clear up!

[Carakraft in reply to Minushabens]

Fingers crossed!

[Kitten-kat23]

Good luck with your 2 weeks of assessment.

[VinswaynW]

One or more of your medications are the culprit along with a possible allergic reaction as you mentioned it has gotten worse of late. It may have been a change of some sort but the "what" is the issue. I hope that this issue can get pinpointed and taken care of. Good luck to you Minushabens.

[Minushabens Asthma Captain in reply to VinswaynW]

Thank you It is starting to look like I have picked up an infection (cellulitis) which having the oedema long-term makes more likely. Anyway, although I’m still in a fair amount of pain & limping, it has eased a lot since getting the antibiotics.

Thanks for all the input from everyone-it’s really helpful.

[Carakraft in reply to Minushabens]

Take care of yourself 🙂