What could cause edema or fluid buildup in the chest of a person with a history of diabetes and hypertension?

Question

Hello doctor,

My mom is a diabetic, hypertensive, and on medications for both. For the last six months, she has been having peripheral edema right-sided. Kidney function tests, complete blood count, and urine all reports are normal. Yesterday she was having mild chest pain and breathlessness. The ECG (electrocardiogram) and echocardiogram done was normal. Chest X-ray shows fluid buildup in lungs. Please let me know what could cause edema and fluid buildup in the body. Also, the guide for further investigation and treatment.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your query.

Was the echocardiogram entirely normal, or was there any diastolic dysfunction? Just check it. Pedal edema may occur with age due to excessive salt retention in the body. Since you have ruled out important causes, now there is no need to worry about it. For edema, she should have a tablet of Torsemide 5 mg in the morning, which will remove excess salt and also restrict salt intake. So get this medicine suggested by the local doctor. Also, she should undergo a treadmill test for chest pain.

I hope this has helped you. Thank you.