Fluid Retention

**freakyschizogirl** · 03-29-2011, 12:41 AM

Hi all

Over the last few days my left foot has swollen up.

I know it is fluid retention because my mum has the same feet...hers look like balloons! Any tips on how to get it to go down? I'm wearing a tubigrip bandage at the mo...cos i've heard compression helps, as does keeping it elevated.
Also i'm wondering if it would be caused by my ankle as i broke it 3 years ago...

Thanks Guys

**Sangye** · 03-29-2011, 01:45 AM

They need to rule out blood clot right away. Weggies are 23% more likely to get clots and sudden, unexplained foot or lower extremity edema is often the only sign you have.

A broken ankle can certainly cause ongoing edema, but it wouldn't suddenly swell up after 3 years unless you re-injured it.

**Jack** · 03-29-2011, 04:05 AM

I agree that you need to get this looked at. There are a number of serious issues that can lead to fluid retention that need ruling out, but if caught early they can usually be treated.

**freakyschizogirl** · 03-29-2011, 05:06 AM

Awww feeling worried now... my mum has it but its caused by her arthritis....i've hear Steroids can cause fluid retention too...

**Sangye** · 03-29-2011, 05:39 AM

Steroids will cause symmetrical swelling. Please don't try to self-diagnose for this, Sam. Get it checked out today.

**freakyschizogirl** · 03-29-2011, 06:24 AM

Wasnt self diagnosing, i just never think it could be anything more than something simple!

And the fact my mum has it, thought it was just a quirky thing that would go away.

I have to go get a blood test tomorrow anyway, might as well pop in to get checked out too.

Thanks for your advice, which is invaluable to me. x