Leg Edema-Fluid Leaking

[pomeranion]

Legs leaking fluid. On high dose prednisolone 60mgs. for PMR and GCA for 4 months. Going on second week of leaking. Started with right leg. Left leg not leaking but swollen. Then complication with left calf. Son's dog scratched and tore large gash because of the severe edema. Had to be transported by ambulance to hospital emergency. 26 stitches. Dr. had difficulty suturing because of leaking started from wound. I am bandaging constantly and unable to control flow. Elevating helps a little. I am on a diuretic for the edema and an antibiotic for the wound. Saw GP and will see new Rheumatologist on Friday. Any suggestions or tips appreciated.

[piglette]

That happened to me but the fluid came from just a pin prick. I could not understand why my leg felt wet and then realised it was sticky wet watery stuff. It carried on for at least two weeks. It then happened several times when I caught my leg on a thorn.

[pomeranion in reply to piglette]

Did you have the edema (swelling) at the time? I hope the diuretic will ease some of the swelling and therefore the leaking. Can only wait and see.

[piglette in reply to pomeranion]

I started having swelling virtually as soon as I started the steroids. I did get prescribed a diuretic but it did not work for me.

[pomeranion in reply to piglette]

I remain optimistic for the diuretic to help. I know the steroids are the necessary evil. I don't know how I would function or how my quality life would be without them. I was unaware of these side effects. I hope to be able to taper eventually. I'm so thankful I found this forum.

[piglette in reply to pomeranion]

Steroids are a wonder drug!

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Grammy80 had a similar problem - hope she sees this

[Grammy80]

Here it is 10 pm on 8/4---and I'm just seeing this post Pomeranion!! Thanks Pro.

I had the same issue and was diagnosed with lymphedema and the leakage is lymph fluid. Yes, my legs were very swollen. I see you are in the States as I am. I went for weeks for Lymphedema therapy where a therapists massages the point to get the lymph system working properly.

WOUNDS, so important for that gash to be treated at a wound clinic because we are at high risk for cellulitis which can be very serious if not caught early. We are inclined to infection and need extra help. In June of this year I had a bad gash on my leg and the medication and wraps they put on your leg are so important. You need compression, do you wear compression hose? The wound clinic will most likely put a compression wrap on your leg with the injury.

Diuretics will not cure your situation...because it isn't water, it is probably?? lymph fluid~with the steroids you have to watch your kidney numbers too if you take diuretic. I'm no doctor, obviously, but I've been on steroids and Actemra for three years and totally get the side effects. We manage the disease, PMR/GCA and we also have to manage the side effects...where would we be without it.

Please keep us posted. 💕💕