Swollen Feet /epsom Salts

[arjay]

1. I am a male pensioner and have for several years suffered with swollen feet which makes it difficult to walk and results in my being housebound. I am a diabetic type 1
2. There are mauve marks on my legs just above the ankle.
3. Some years ago, my doctor told me that there was nothing that could be done to get rid of the swelling and recommended that I use a Zimmer frame to get about the house.
4. LATELY THE SITUATION HAS WORSENED and I am afraid of becoming bedbound as well.
5. As recommended on the Internet, I have started to bathe my feet in a solution of warm Epsom Salts and I am wondering whether anybody has had experience of a cure or alleviation of swelling by this system.
6. Your comments will be greatly appreciated. Thank you

[bednobs]

you would be better off resting with your legs up?. Do you know the cause of your swollen feet? are you on any treatment?

[bednobs]

ps i have mauve staining o my legs too - i think it's called haem staining (or corned beef legs as one user on here calls them :))

[Sqad]

"As recommended on the Internet, I have started to bathe my feet in a solution of warm Epsom Salts"

That is rubbish!!

" Some years ago, my doctor told me that there was nothing that could be done to get rid of the swelling and recommended that I use a Zimmer frame to get about the house. "

That is rubbish!!!

The swelling of the ankles is called oedema and may be due to many things.....overweight, inactivity, heart under strain, kidney problems etc.
Go back to your Dr , explain the situation and whilst he is arranging some blood tests, he will prescribe tablets which will get rid of the oedema (fluid.)

[arjay]

Thank you bedknobs and Dr.Sqad. I have booked a telephone appointment with my doctor this afternoon and will ask for tablets to reduce the swelling as suggested by you. I will let you know when the tablets have done their work.
Would you please let me know the name of the tablets and whether they are available in capsule or liquid form as I have swallowing difficulties due to a hiatus hernia. Thank you very much indeed. Your advice has raised my spirits and truly made my day

[Sqad]

They are called diuretics, but mostly in tablet form unfortunately.
Two that come to mind:

Furosemide.20 mgms.........take 2 in the morning with your breakfast.
OR
Toresamide....I have forgotten the dose......

These are just two examples of many more called ..diuretics.

[rosyposy]

My neighbour who is 96 is exactly the same, his feet are like two footballs and very hot to the touch and also extremely painful. The doctor said it is gout, gave him frusimide and cream to rub on but also said there is nothing they can do so he is loath to call him out again. Such a shame as he loves pottering in his garden but is now finding it impossible to do, hope you get some help arjay

[arjay]

To Dr.Sqad. My doctor (Head of Practice) has prescribed a 14 day supply of a 20g tablet. The local pharmacy will deliver it on Monday. I will tell you the name when I know it.
To rosyposy. What a terrible sad story about your 96 old neighbour. Is it possible for you to get him some practical help by contacting the Local Council, the MP or writing to the local press. Perhaps the WRVS could help. In my opinion he should have morphine injections

[Sqad]

They will almost certainly be Furosemide.
Thanks for the feedback.