Fluid retention

[jensen_lynne]

How do you know you have fluid in your legs, arms, feet, or stomach?

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi jensen_lynne ,

Fluid retention would most causing swelling of the lower legs and ankles. As well as swelling or puffiness of the skin, oedema can also cause: skin discolouration, areas of skin that temporarily hold the imprint of your finger when pressed (known as pitting oedema), aching, tender limbs, stiff joints, weight gain.

Have you been to your doctor regarding your symptoms?

[Wendy39]

Hello jensen_lynne

I have had fluid retention in my ankles in the past. I get this mainly during the summer if I wear sandals too much - I am sun sensitive and it seems to make my feet very dry and cracked and swollen if I do not protect them from the sun adequately. Funnily enough, I have photos of my skin issues (unfortunately not from diagnosis in 2013, but from around summer 2014 I realised that photographic evidence of this sort of thing was needed, as sod's law lots of skin problems and rashes etc cleared up by the time I saw a GP / Rheumy / Dermatologist) and my feet were so horrendously swollen in 2014. I can't believe the photos. I am so glad I have them, as I am seeing a new doctor soon but will be able to show him the various skin issues and fluid retention that I have experienced over the years since 2014.

You have asked a few questions recently about your symptoms and lupus, but it is really hard to give more specific advice to you about your situation, as you haven't told us what stage you are at, if you have a diagnosis or whether you see a Rheumatologist or Dermatologist or if you are on any treatment.

If you think you may have lupus, or any other auto-immune condition, you must seek medical advice. As much as we have knowledge of our own personal experiences of lupus here and we all really want to help and support others by sharing those experiences, none of us are qualified / medically trained. Please see your GP to discuss your symptoms, if you haven't already.

Best wishes.