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Hi Doctor, My Mom Has Lymphedema And Cannot Walk Due

Posted on Sun, 11 Oct 2020

Question: Hi doctor, my mom has lymphedema and cannot walk due to the amount of water she accumulates in her legs. She also has severe arthritis and flat feet, which prevents her from moving. She also is very prone to infection and her skin is very dry. She is on diuretics as well to remove the fluid from her legs, but it's not helping for some reason. Can you please tell me how she can walk again despite her severe arthritis + lymphedema? She also tried physical therapy but now she is unable to because the weight in her legs is too much and her joints are too stiff. Can you tell me what surgery (if applicable,) or any other treatment would she need? Thanks!

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Answer

Detailed Answer:
Hi there

Thanks for the query

Chronic lymphoedema can be difficult to treat. Limb elevation is still very important and possibly change in medication.

It's best to get a 2D ECHO for the heart to see if it's functioning appropriately and also kidney function to be monitored. Fluid restriction is also important.

If there is pain, fever and difficulty in bearing weight then it could be cellulitis or deeper infection. Blood tests and CRP can measure infection and adequate measures be taken to cure the infection.

I hope I have answered your query.

I will be available to answer your follow up queries.

Regards,

Aashish Raghu

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Aashish Raghu (3 hours later)

Thanks for your response. What is a 2D echo test and where can my mom get one? Also what is a CRP?

Thanks!

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Answer

Detailed Answer:
2d echo is test for heart function. If she is experiencing difficulty breathing or shortness of breath then it's a good idea to get it done. Any diagnostic centre or Hospital will be able to do it.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Aashish Raghu (1 hour later)

Thanks for your response. If my mom is prone to infection, can she still get cortisone shots or would that increase the risk for infection?

Also, what is CRP and where can I get it done?

Thank you!

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Answer

Detailed Answer:
Hi

CRP is a marker of inflammation or infection.
It is usually raised in patients with infection. It can be done at any lab as part of the blood tests if requested.

Steroids can aggravate an infection and should not be taken if there is suspicion of infection.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj