Q: What can I do to keep my ankles and feet from swelling? (I am already taking Lasix pills twice daily.)
A: The most common causes of “edema feet” or swelling are: prolonged standing, long journeys, increased age, venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and certain medications. Edema foot can also be due to heart failure, kidney failure, or liver failure.
For treatment, you will need radiographic tests, a complete urine examination, and tests for liver function, kidney function, and cardiac function. For more, see this Mayo Clinic information sheet on edema.
Elevation of the leg and applying ice will relieve your symptoms temporarily. A low-salt diet and avoiding excess fluid intake usually helps. Edema feet is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying disease that your doctor should know about. In the meantime continue taking a diuretic pill like Lasix as prescribed.
— Answer from Dr. David, a physician on JustAnswer.
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