Should I Be Concerned About My Swelling?
I am a 26-year-old weighing 70 kg, and I do not smoke. My routine includes swimming twice per week, which I enjoy. After a long day of working for eight hours while remaining stationary at my desk as a programmer, I notice that my socks leave impressions on my skin. If I press my finger into my leg for about 10 to 15 seconds, I also see marks appear. Typically, when I get into bed at night, my feet are cold, and it takes some time for them to warm up, often until I am already asleep. On occasion, I experience mild discomfort in my feet. Additionally, I have noticed an unusual phenomenon: whenever I feel pain in my feet, I simultaneously feel discomfort in my intestines, almost as if they are connected in some way. I had my glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) tested last year, and it was roughly 79 ml/min/1.73 m². My physician mentioned that this could indicate dehydration, so I am uncertain if this is related to my current concerns. My doctor suspects that I may be dealing with venous stasis and has recommended that I take diosmin for a few weeks if the swelling persists. Are these symptoms something to worry about? Should I undergo further testing for potential kidney or cardiovascular issues?
Answers (1)
3/25/2025, 6:20:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your concerns about swelling and associated symptoms are understandable, and they warrant attention, especially given your active lifestyle. The swelling you're experiencing in your legs, particularly after prolonged periods of sitting, can suggest venous stasis, which is a condition where blood pools in the veins. While venous stasis is often not serious, addressing it can help improve your comfort and prevent more significant issues.
Explanation
The impressions your socks leave and the marks from pressing on your skin indicate fluid retention. This is typically due to prolonged periods of sitting and can be exacerbated by inadequate circulation. Cold feet and the discomfort you describe may be linked to how well blood is flowing in your body, especially given your sedentary work routine.
The connection you feel between foot pain and intestinal discomfort is interesting but less common; it could relate to nerve pathways. However, it's essential to approach this systematically. Your eGFR of 79 ml/min indicates mild decreases in kidney function, which could be a sign of dehydration or other issues. Therefore, monitoring kidney function and ensuring you stay well-hydrated is wise.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Improve Circulation:
- Take frequent breaks every hour to stand up, stretch, and walk around for a few minutes. This can help prevent blood pooling in your legs.
- Consider elevating your legs for 15-20 minutes several times a day when possible to reduce swelling.
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Stay Hydrated:
- Aim to drink enough water throughout the day (about 2 liters, but adjust based on your activity level and any thirst cues). Proper hydration is crucial for kidney health and circulation.
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Use Compression:
- If recommended by healthcare professionals, wearing compression socks during the day may help reduce swelling and improve blood flow in your legs.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a record of your swelling and any associated symptoms, such as foot or intestinal discomfort. This diary will be helpful if further evaluation is needed.
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Revisit Your Doctor:
- Since your doctor suspects venous stasis and suggested diosmin, follow up if your symptoms persist or worsen. Discuss your kidney function concerns, especially if you notice additional symptoms like changes in urination, fatigue, or any new pain.
It's good that you're aware and proactive about your health. Doing these steps may relieve your symptoms, but don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice if you're unsure or if anything changes significantly.
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