Kidney function

[olive2709]

Just had results of last blood tests for the second time kidney function down notes say repeat in three months .. Had same result 3 months ago do I just go with flow, talk to GP , or is there any way I can help myself . Ankles swollen when I get up every morning down to 1mg pred

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Have a chat with your GP - although some tend to panic when they see that on a report when there isn't any real need. And do mention the swollen ankles in the morning - because that is the one time they shouldn't be swollen after you've been lying in bed all night.

Here are some basic tips for self-help:

"Some tips that may help:

Raise your legs above your heart while lying down.

Exercise your legs. This helps pump fluid from your legs back to your heart.

Follow a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid buildup and swelling.

Wear support stockings (sold at most drug and medical supply stores).

When traveling, take breaks often to stand up and move around.

Avoid wearing tight clothing or garters around your thighs.

Lose weight if you need to.

Never stop taking any medicines you think may be causing swelling without first talking to your doctor."

The support stockings (I would say) should be left to the doctor to recommend.

[olive2709 in reply to PMRpro]

Already use support tights on GP advice for tiredness in legs e ,have electric bed have been raising the foot for a while gp is aware of this ankles have been swollen on the morning for about 6 weeks she is aware of this to don't know what else to do

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to olive2709]

Be patient and see what happens. The doctor obviously isn't too concerned yet.

If you wanted to try something else, what about manual lymph drainage which I found worked wonders?

[Celtic PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Olive, it isn't uncommon for kidney function to reduce slightly as part of the ageing process. Is it your eGFR that shows a reduction in kidney function? If so, do you know what the eGFR figure is?

Having swollen ankles upon rising in the morning can sometimes be a sign of some sort of problem going on, and the doctors do get a little concerned if people experience swollen ankles during the day that fail to go down overnight.

If it was me, I would have that chat with the GP, mainly to put your mind at rest. Meanwhile, as well as reducing/avoiding all salt in your diet, you could try including plenty of known diuretic-type foods, such as asparagus, celery, garlic, melon and fennel. And raise those legs and feet every time you sit down

1mg Pred? Now that's something to get excited about! Well done!

[olive2709 in reply to Celtic]

GCA is 50 weeks old tomorrow started on 40mg so I did good . Will call surgery on Monday to get phone chat with GP quickest way to get answers

[piglette]

I have just had a blood test on kidney function which looks fine, but it says repeat in three months. It looks like a computer reminder judging by the type face as the GP comments are in a different type.