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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Edema In The Lower Extremities In An Elder Man?

My 102 year old uncle was diagnosed with congestive heart failure several years ago. He is now suffering with edema in his lower extremities. He also has a severly thickened valve. He is now hospitalized and is on 30 mg of lasix. He is also diabetic and is taking oral medication for that, too. We don't seem to be getting any answers about what to expect in the days ahead. He is still eating but seems to have stomach problems such as nausea and diarrhea, but his lungs seem to be pretty clear. He has very frequent night time urination, but he doesn't have trouble breathing yet--just a little congestion. I am his only care taker, and I work days. Can you possible give me any idea of what is in store for us? Is this advance CHF? Thank you!
Mon, 20 Oct 2014
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Edema in the lower extremities can be caused by congestive heart failure, liver failure, and kidney problems, among others. You don't say which valve is thickened, but it may be preventing normal blood flow through the heart and into the rest of his body. If it's blocking the right side of the heart, this can cause extremity edema without affecting the lungs right away. It is hard to say what may be in store for you at this point. His doctors know more about his condition and should be able to indicate his prognosis. You might need to ask them directly and push them for answers, but both you and your uncle deserve to be told in detail what is going on. Hope this helps.
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What Causes Edema In The Lower Extremities In An Elder Man?

Edema in the lower extremities can be caused by congestive heart failure, liver failure, and kidney problems, among others. You don t say which valve is thickened, but it may be preventing normal blood flow through the heart and into the rest of his body. If it s blocking the right side of the heart, this can cause extremity edema without affecting the lungs right away. It is hard to say what may be in store for you at this point. His doctors know more about his condition and should be able to indicate his prognosis. You might need to ask them directly and push them for answers, but both you and your uncle deserve to be told in detail what is going on. Hope this helps.