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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Swelling In The Legs With A History Of Hypothyroidism?

I am 29 and the last month have been having what I think is swelling on the inside park of my ankle. I press it and my finger gets indented. No pain or redness... its not my foot or outside ankle, I think my leg may be swollen too but not sure. I went to the ER and they did ultrasounds,blood work, EKG and chest xray. Everything is ok except a fatty liver :( I started working out and eating better and this has not improved. I do have hypothyroidism for about 10 years and stopped taking my medicine , for more than 6 months ( insurance problems, and lost my job). I went to see my pcp about 2 weeks ago and started my medicine about a week and a half ago... i havent seen any improvement. I have an appt this week with my pcp again.. Not sure what this could be.
Thu, 29 Jan 2015
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Pathologist and Microbiologist,  's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows.
1. Hypothyroidism causes overall metabolism reduction.
2. This can affect venous return also, resulting in edema of the ankle.
3. Limb elevation in lying down position with 2-3 pillow, below legs will be helpful. However, most importantly, correction of thyroid hormone levels is necessary.
4. Get a repeat thyroid hormone profile done. Thyroid is an important hormone and to be never stopped, unless you are advised to do so by your doctor. Once the thyroid levels, get back to normal, your ankle swelling would not reappear.
5. For fatty liver, weight reduction, moderate exercises and low fat diet will be helpful.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
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What Causes Swelling In The Legs With A History Of Hypothyroidism?

Hi, Thanks for asking. Based on your query, my opinion is as follows. 1. Hypothyroidism causes overall metabolism reduction. 2. This can affect venous return also, resulting in edema of the ankle. 3. Limb elevation in lying down position with 2-3 pillow, below legs will be helpful. However, most importantly, correction of thyroid hormone levels is necessary. 4. Get a repeat thyroid hormone profile done. Thyroid is an important hormone and to be never stopped, unless you are advised to do so by your doctor. Once the thyroid levels, get back to normal, your ankle swelling would not reappear. 5. For fatty liver, weight reduction, moderate exercises and low fat diet will be helpful. Hope it helps. Any further queries, happy to help again.