Why does pitting edema occur in the lower legs and feet?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I want to emphasize that pitting edema lasting over 15 to 20 minutes with significant loss of skin elasticity, especially at your age and low body weight, is not typical and warrants urgent evaluation. Combined with your existing neuropathy, this suggests a potentially serious underlying cause such as chronic venous insufficiency, protein deficiency, kidney or liver dysfunction, or even congestive heart failure. Despite your age, these need to be ruled out.

Neuropathy itself can impair your ability to notice worsening swelling or injury, and fluid buildup can further damage nerve endings. Also, being off your epilepsy medication for seven weeks raises concerns, as seizures and neurological issues can contribute indirectly to mobility problems, worsening edema due to immobility. I strongly recommend urgent laboratory tests, including renal and liver function, electrolytes, albumin or protein levels, BNP (brain natriuretic peptide), thyroid function, and a urinalysis, along with a chest X-ray and lower limb Doppler ultrasound to assess for DVT (deep vein thrombosis) or venous insufficiency.

Meanwhile, elevate your legs when possible, avoid prolonged standing or sitting, and wear compression stockings if tolerable—but only after DVT is ruled out. These symptoms need a comprehensive workup to avoid serious complications, especially with your neuropathy and systemic signs. Let’s get to the root of this so we can help restore your function and comfort.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.