question

[AquaGirl]

My right ankle is swollen (my husband says it looks like it did when he broke his). I feel bloated but I don't know if water retention would show in only one ankle or not. It hurts too. I am incredibly thirsty, have had close to a gallon of water today. i haven't ever felt like this before. I am 5'4, 125lbs and have always had low blood pressure, even throughout pregnancy. Is this something I should be concerned with?

[Sapphire Silk]

Yes.

People can develop edema in one extremity over another. If you have not recently had an injury to that ankle, I would be suspicious of something more serious.

I'm also concerned about the thirst. How's your urine output? Are you peeing a lot?

I'm concerned about diabetes. Please see your doctor.

[AquaGirl]

I was afraid of that. I guess I do need to go to the Dr. I did break that ankle when I was 8 and it sometimes aches. But never swells like this. My urine is like that of someone retaining a lot of fluid: none and then lots and lots. I will make an appointment tommorow.

[Sapphire Silk]

Good. Let us know how it goes

[AquaGirl]

Forgot to update:got to the Dr on Friday. He doesn't think diabetes but is concerned that I may actually have an additional injury to the ankle so I am supposed to go to an orthopedist...I think? Next week. My bp was normal (low, which is normal for me) but he wanted me to start randomly checking it a few times a week and then come back in 2 weeks. He also did some blood work but didn't have a lot to say about what it might be. I had eaten some salty food, but nothing really out of the ordinary. I love salt. I forgot to mention, I lost 6 lbs from one day to the next (weighing first thing in the morning). That's a lot of water.

[Sapphire Silk]

Hmm. Let us know how the blood work comes out.

Glad you got checked and very glad it doesn't look like diabetes.

Some people when they injure extremities will develop something called lymphedema. Basically, the lymphatic system loses its ability to drain away excess fluids from the limbs. It can range from mild to serious. I thought of that when I re-read the thread and noted the history of the ankle break.

Or you could have some mild peripheral artery disease. Although I haven't been formally diagnosed, I probably have some of this. I have some edema in my feet and calves related to my high blood pressure. I've been trying to limit my salt intake to control it. Difficult, like you I love salt.

I often gain several pounds of water weight around the time of my period, and lose it when my period is over.

They may not come to a quick answer to the problem. keep an eye on it.

[iradney]

Mod note: Sickbay is here for stories about sucky patients/doctors. It is NOT for asking for medical advice - there is way too much liability involved for us to allow that kind of thing. Refer to The Rules of Engagment for this forum.