What are the factors causing foot swelling?

Question

Hello doctor,

My husband, aged 52, has been dealing with some unusual swelling in his legs, and it is causing him so much physical and emotional distress. The swelling seems to be getting worse, and it is affecting his mobility and overall quality of life. I am scared of the potential complications and the impact on his long-term health. He never had such problems before and is currently taking Metformin for diabetes for the past three years. Can you please help me understand if his symptoms align with lymphedema? What tests can be done to diagnose the issue, and what treatments are available to manage the swelling? Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Swelling in the lower limbs can be due to various reasons; in fact, diabetes (a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces) can lead to such swelling as well. So, I would suggest you check your sugar levels once and do a kidney function test as well. If the kidney is not functioning well, fluid can accumulate in the legs, so these are the causes that can be suspected in your case. Lymphoedema (swelling in the arms or legs) is usually associated with infection, such as a parasite infection, and if you do not have any history of infection, it cannot be the reason for swelling. I suggest checking your husband’s blood sugar levels and doing kidney function tests.

Also, please attach a picture of your swelling. I will check and let you know.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.