What Happens When Elderly People Retain Water In Their Legs/ankles?

Extreme swelling, often in the feet, ankles and legs, can lead to skin ulcers (wounds), weeping edema and dangerous skin infections like cellulitis. Family caregivers who suspect edema should address the concern immediately with a physician.6

What do swollen ankles mean in the elderly?

Legs, ankles, and feet swell when excess fluid is pulled down by gravity and builds up in the lower body. This is called edema and it’s common in older adults and usually happens on both sides of the body. It can be caused by a variety of health conditions including heart failure, kidney disease, gout, and arthritis.

Is edema in the legs life threatening?

Most of the time, the edema is not a serious illness, but it may be a sign for one. Here are some examples: Venous insufficiency can cause edema in the feet and ankles, because the veins are having trouble transporting enough blood all the way to the feet and back to the heart.

What can you do for swollen ankles in the elderly?

To reduce the swelling from a foot or ankle injury, rest to avoid walking on the injured ankle or foot, use ice packs, wrap the foot or ankle with compression bandage, and elevate the foot on a stool or pillow. If swelling and pain is severe or doesn’t improve with home treatment, see your doctor.

How do I get rid of water retention in my legs and ankles?

Home Care

  1. Put your legs on pillows to raise them above your heart while lying down.
  2. Exercise your legs.
  3. Follow a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid buildup and swelling.
  4. Wear support stockings (sold at most drugstores and medical supply stores).
  5. When traveling, take breaks often to stand up and move around.
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What happens if edema is left untreated?

If left untreated, edema can lead to increasingly painful swelling, stiffness, difficulty walking, stretched or itchy skin, skin ulcers, scarring, and decreased blood circulation.

How is edema treated in elderly?

Mild edema usually goes away on its own, particularly if you help things along by raising the affected limb higher than your heart. More-severe edema may be treated with drugs that help your body expel excess fluid in the form of urine (diuretics). One of the most common diuretics is furosemide (Lasix).

Can edema in legs cause death?

It is a serious condition, it can be a medical emergency, and it can lead to respiratory failure and death. Cerebral edema: This occurs in the brain. It can happen for a range of reasons, many of which are potentially life threatening.

When should you go to the hospital for swollen feet and legs?

You should seek emergency care if you have sudden, unexplained swelling in just one limb or if it occurs along with chest pain, trouble breathing, coughing up blood, fever, or skin that is red and warm to the touch.

What causes edema in legs in elderly?

Edema (or swelling) of the lower limbs is common in older adults. The most common cause (about 70%) of leg edema is due to Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). Other serious causes of edema include congestive heart failure, kidney disease, and liver disease.

Does walking help swollen legs?

The best weapon in the fight against swollen legs is a simple one: walking. Getting your legs moving means circulation is improved which will sweep up that collected fluid and get it shifted.

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What can elderly eat for weak legs?

10 Foods to Help Seniors Build Strong Muscles

  • Meat. Animal meats are rich in protein and valuable in senior health, supplying an approximate 7 grams of protein per one ounce.
  • Fatty Fish.
  • Tofu.
  • Eggs.
  • Milk.
  • Cheese.
  • Beans.
  • Nuts.

What causes water retention in elderly?

Causes of edema in seniors are wide ranging, minor to extreme. Most cases of mild edema in seniors are side effects of medications for high blood pressure, steroids, diabetes, or estrogens. Other mild causes of edema could include sitting or staying in one position for too long or eating too much salty food.

When should I be worried about water retention?

Fluid retention can accompany serious or even life-threatening conditions. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure, an inability to urinate, or a decrease in urination.

What is the fastest way to get rid of water retention?

Here are 13 ways to reduce excess water weight fast and safely.

  1. Exercise on a Regular Basis. Share on Pinterest.
  2. Sleep More.
  3. Stress Less.
  4. Take Electrolytes.
  5. Manage Salt Intake.
  6. Take a Magnesium Supplement.
  7. Take a Dandelion Supplement.
  8. Drink More Water.

Is walking good for edema?

The best weapon in the fight against swollen legs is a simple one: walking. Getting your legs moving means circulation is improved which will sweep up that collected fluid and get it shifted.

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