HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Suggest Treatment For Congestive Heart Disease

Posted on Mon, 16 Mar 2015

Question: My 87 y/o mother who has congestive heart disease has sudden swelling of the lower abdomen, more predominant on the lower right side than the left, quite low, towards the pelvic area. No symptoms for bowel or bladder habits. No pain. She is on her diuretic and BP meds. Wearing her Jobst hose. Gained 1.5 pounds from yesterday to today, which isn't huge but is a gain. Not sure what to do? Call GP tomorrow? Or cardiologist? Or seek treatment sooner? Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rovena (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
consult her cardiologist.

Detailed Answer:
Hello!

Welcome to Healthcare Magic.

I read carefully your query and understand your concern.

The swelling on abdomen and this rapid weight gain suggest that there is fluid accumulation due to heart failure.It may indicate that the heart failure is getting worse.Usually it is recommended to the patient to weight themselves every day and if they have swelling in legs,feet ,abdomen and weight gain more then 3 pounds in 3 days ,they should consult their doctor.
I would suggest to call her treating doctor (preferably her cardiologist) tomorrow for evaluation.

Hope it helps.
Let me know if you have any other question or doubt to clarify.I will be happy to assist you further.

Kind regards,
Dr.Rovena Murati

Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar